ABC’s 20/20 returns with a chilling look at the murder of Blaze Bernstein, a 19-year-old college student whose winter break ended in tragedy. This isn’t just another true crime story; it’s a stark examination of hate and its devastating consequences. The two-hour special, airing Friday, January 3, 2025, at 9:01 p.m. EST, promises to be a tough watch, exploring the difficulties of a case that gripped the nation.
Bernstein, a pre-med student at the University of Pennsylvania, disappeared in early 2018 while visiting his family in California. His body was later found in a shallow grave, the victim of multiple stab wounds. The investigation quickly turned towards a former high school classmate, Samuel Woodward. What unfolded was a story far more complicated than a simple interpersonal conflict.
Woodward, linked to a neo-Nazi group, became the prime suspect. Prosecutors argued that he lured Bernstein to a park and murdered him in a hate-fueled attack. The 20/20 special offers viewers an inside look at the police interrogation of Woodward, where his calm demeanor clashes with the horrific nature of the crime.
Adding a personal dimension to the tragedy is an exclusive interview with Bernstein’s sister, Beaue. Her tireless efforts in uncovering social media messages proved crucial in leading investigators to Woodward. It’s a testament to the power of family and a stark reminder of the grief and determination that often drive such cases.
The special features interviews with key figures in the investigation, including Orange County Sheriff’s Department officers and ABC News legal contributor Matt Murphy. Bernstein’s parents, Jeanne Pepper Bernstein and Gideon Bernstein, also share their heartbreaking story, offering a glimpse into the life of their son and the devastating impact of his loss.
The conviction of Samuel Woodward, sentenced to life without parole, provided a measure of justice. However, the questions surrounding the case, and the broader implications of hate-motivated violence, continue to resonate. This 20/20 special, reported by ABC News Chief National Correspondent Matt Gutman, aims to provide not just answers, but a platform for understanding the human cost of intolerance.
20/20 airs Friday at 9:01-11:00 p.m. EST on ABC.
