Murder is rarely committed by complete strangers. Motives can range from a crime of passion to pure greed. Murderers have often come from violent homes and have witnessed brutality first hand. They may lack emotion and may not even conceive the idea that they could get caught afterwards.

First Degree murder is classed as premeditated, Second Degree is classed as sudden or instantaneous, Manslaughter may be described as unintentional. Whatever the reasons for committing murder, the impact on the family of the victim can be unbearable. Feelings of guilt are common especially where a family member or friend has committed the crime.

The first 48 hours after a murder are the most crucial. The crime scene evidence must be collected and processed and with the continuing advancement in crime scene analysis and behavioural profiling it is near impossible for a person to cover their tracks.