I Asked Him to Say What Had Happened, How it All Began*

When old cases are re-opened, there’s usually some sort of initial ‘spark.’ Police departments or attorneys might have a new witness come forward. Or, there might be new evidence that comes to light. There are even cases where witnesses change their stories for whatever reason, and that throws a whole new light on a case. There are other reasons, too, for which a case might be re-opened.

Crime writers have some latitude and flexibility when it comes to the way a case is re-opened. And it’s interesting to see how different authors bring in that plot element. When it’s done effectively, it can move a plot forward in an interesting way.