The First 48 is a hit true crime docu-series that follows detectives during the hours immediately following a homicide. It is available to watch on A&E and first aired back in 2004. After 24 seasons, The First 48 has created some unforgettable episodes. Below, we’ll be ranking the best episodes of The First 48 and why they have earned their spots on the list.
From the shocking twists and turns of the case, to the heartbreaking stories of the victims and their families, the show has created some truly moving and captivating episodes. Each episode is filled with intense moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
So, without further ado, let’s jump right into the ranking and see which episodes made the cut as the best of the best of The First 48.
Written by Sophie and last updated on feb 13, 2023.
PS: The following content contains spoilers!
PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!
To kick off the new season, an anniversary special will bring viewers along as detectives work to solve the murders of two women in Tulsa, Oklahoma who were gunned down in broad daylight. Commemorating 15 years on the air, the two-hour special will also include interviews with some of the most prominent homicide detectives featured in the series to-date as they look back on the some of the most memorable cases of their careers. A young mother and her best friend are gunned down in broad daylight, setting off a chain of events that Tulsa Homicide never could have imagined.
The episode was rated 7.13 from 24 votes.
When a young man and his pregnant fiancée are executed after a failed ransom attempt, Atlanta Homicide will stop at nothing to identify the elusive suspect.
The episode was rated 7.39 from 23 votes.
In Tulsa, Okla., detectives struggle to find a lead when a beloved grandfather is gunned down in his home.
The episode was rated 7.70 from 23 votes.
