Verve 2022 | Page 21

Prime Suspect

Sebby Kent

” It doesn ’ t add up , not quite .”
The detective was standing in front of the scene of the crime ; a tall , run-down building cordoned off with police tape . It was the perfect crime scene . No cameras , no lighting , no witnesses . He had been called there not long after the crime , while the blood was still fresh .
“ Is there anything , Constable , anything at all ?”
From the evidence , a conclusion had been reached . Clean and efficient , done by professionals . It was an open and shut case , no further leads to follow . For such an important case , this was troubling .
The rain was tumbling down now , racing down the windows , and soaking the victims ’ clothes . Officers were patrolling the perimeter , clinically examining everything and anything that could give insight into this unfortunate occurrence . A stray cat , fur matted to its scrawny frame , prowled along a grimy concrete well . Neon signs angrily glared into the night .
“ Sir , there ’ s no new evidence . Nothing but what we already found .”
The detective threw himself back into thought , considering every option , even pondering the hypothetical and unfathomable . How could this be ? Fifteen people dead , and not a trace to be found . So little evidence , yet so much death .
The thunderous drumming of rain reverbed off the body bags , all fifteen of them lined up , as they were found . It seemed as though the murder had been one of angles and calculation ; one of art and of deathly beauty , rather than a brutal killing .
“ Pity , I was hoping to solve this .”
“ Should I inform the Prime Minister , Sir ?” the constable asked .
“ Tell him his wife and son are dead .”