True Crime

Michelle Ziegler, an Oakland journalist, dies in a car accident after spending an evening drinking with Steve Everett. Distracted while fiddling with the car radio, the rainy conditions and low visibility contributed to the tragic crash that ended her life.

Steve Everett is assigned to cover the execution of convicted murderer Frank Beechum, stepping in for his deceased colleague Michelle. Though his editor Bob is hesitant due to Everett's tendency to turn stories into investigations, Bob's boss Alan insists on allowing him the opportunity because of Everett's reputation.

Frank Beechum, an African American man on death row, maintains his innocence regarding the murder of Amy Wilson. Despite societal assumptions of his guilt based on race and the victim’s profile, Beechum claims he was merely at the store to buy steak sauce.

With only twelve hours until Beechum's scheduled execution at midnight, Everett is under immense pressure to prove his innocence. He is tasked with interviewing Beechum at 4:30 PM, creating a race against time as he seeks crucial evidence.

Everett interviews Dale Porterhouse, a key prosecution witness who claims to have seen Beechum over Amy's body. His testimony raises questions, especially since he heard no gunshots, which leaves Everett skeptical of the validity of Dale's account.

Everett confronts District Attorney Cecelia Nussbaum for more information on the case. She reveals that another witness, Warren, was never called to testify, leading Everett to suspect there might be a connection between him and the actual crime.

Everett breaks into Michelle's home, searching for any leads that she might have uncovered in her investigation. He discovers her file on Warren, further fueling his belief in Beechum's innocence and uncovering a potential cover-up.

In a heated confrontation with his bosses regarding his intense investigation into the Beechum case, Everett is fired. He cleverly points out the terms of his contract, demanding six hours and seven minutes of notice before leaving.

Tracking down Warren's grandmother, Angela Russel, Everett learns that her grandson could not possibly be the murderer. This conversation shifts Angela's perspective when Everett mentions a locket similar to one worn by her grandson, leading to a shocking realization.

Knowing Beechum's execution is imminent, Everett rushes Angela to the Governor's mansion to secure a stay of execution. As they arrive, the first drug in the lethal injection has already been administered, intensifying the urgency of the situation.

As the medical team attempts to resuscitate Frank Beechum after he loses consciousness, the tension rises in the Governor's mansion. Angela pleads for her grandson's life, emphasizing the last-minute effort to overturn the execution.

Months later, six months after the execution drama, Everett is seen shopping for a gift for his daughter. He learns that his investigative efforts may have earned him recognition, potentially leading to a Pulitzer Prize, a bittersweet twist to his tumultuous journey.

While shopping, Everett unexpectedly encounters Frank Beechum and his family. They share a moment of acknowledgment, though the situation highlights the complexity of their intertwined lives following the case.