Dateline takes on a truly unsettling case this Saturday, June 28, at 9:00 PM ET/8:00 PM CT on NBC. The episode, titled Before Daylight, zeroes in on the murder of college student Jesse Valencia in Columbia, Missouri—a case that spirals into a shocking accusation involving a police officer.
Keith Morrison handles the report. The initial investigation into Valencia’s death hits a wall, with detectives struggling to find any solid leads. Then, the inquiry takes an abrupt turn when suspicion lands on someone within their own ranks. This unexpected development changes the entire scope of the case.
The broadcast includes interviews that aim to shed light on the truth: Jesse’s mother, Linda Valencia, Officer Steven Rios, Jesse’s friends, and Detective John Short all provide their perspectives.
The true crime fan base will find plenty here, especially those who appreciate narratives where the obvious suspect isn’t the real one, and where the pursuit of justice is fraught with internal conflict.
“Dateline: Before Daylight” airs Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET/8:00 PM CT on NBC.
