Investigation Discovery airs a one off called Fatal Eviction on Saturday, May 18. The episode explores the tragic murder of prominent horse trainer Ross Reisner and the subsequent investigation that revealed a dark web of harassment and a vengeful motive.
On September 24, 2013, Ross Reisner, a well-known horse trainer, was shot and killed at his home in Setauket, Long Island. The attacker fired shots through the window, fatally striking Reisner and slightly injuring his partner, Kevin Murray. The shocking crime sent waves of grief and confusion throughout the local community.
Days after the murder, the police zeroed in on a person of interest: Brett C. Knight, a former roommate, and long-time friend turned bitter adversary of Reisner and Murray. Knight, a former executive at American Express, had a tumultuous history with the couple, including a violent episode in 2010 that led to his eviction from their home.
According to Suffolk County District Attorney Thomas Spota, Knight’s motive stemmed from his belief that Reisner and Murray had interfered in a wrongful termination lawsuit he had filed against his former employer, American Express. Knight, who was HIV-positive, alleged that he was fired due to his medical condition, but suspected that the couple had provided information to American Express that contradicted his claims.
Prior to the murder, Knight had engaged in a pattern of harassing behavior towards Reisner and Murray. This included sending them disturbing messages and a package containing a dead pigeon and a Bible passage alluding to punishment. He had also been charged with harassing Murray but failed to appear in court.
Knight fled Suffolk County after the homicide but was apprehended weeks later in Knoxville, Tennessee, in possession of multiple firearms, including the pistol used in the shooting. He was arrested and ultimately pleaded guilty to the murder of Reisner and the attempted murder of Murray, among other charges.
The episode also shines a light on the impact of Reisner’s death on the equestrian community, where he was a celebrated and cherished figure. A memorial service was held, with family, friends, students, and even Suffolk homicide detectives gathering to pay their respects and honor his life.
Fatal Eviction, airs Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 10:00 PM, on Investigation Discovery.
