48 Hours season 38, episode 11 explores the story of Morgan Metzer, a woman who survived a terrifying kidnapping and assault at the hands of her ex-husband, Rodney Metzer. The show entails the attack, the inquiry that followed, and later on, the aftermath of Morgan's life after that horrific event.
Morgan's story on 48 Hours highlights her resilience in overcoming domestic abuse. It serves as a powerful reminder of the strength needed to survive such trauma. The episode airs on CBS on December 14, 2024.
Trigger Warning: The following article discusses s*xual assault and domestic violence. Reader’s discretion is advised.
Background of 48 Hours
48 Hours, airing on CBS, is a long-running show focused on true crime investigative journalism. It deals with some of the most attractive crimes, carrying out detailed investigations that present diverse aspects of their covered cases.
48 Hours has been a vital platform for unraveling mysteries. It has also brought attention to critical societal issues, particularly crime investigations.
About the crime
On January 1, 2021, Morgan Metzer woke up in her bedroom when she saw an intruder. The intruder had worn a mask to mask his voice, which made him attempt to carry out his assaults violently. After beating Morgan with a gun and attempting to strangle her twice, the intruder zip-tied her hands behind her back, se*ually assaulted her, and left her in a vulnerable state on the back deck of her home.
The attacker told Morgan not to move until she heard car honks, but she never heard them. Shortly after the assault, Rodney Metzer, her former husband, entered the residence, claiming he had heard someone scream Morgan's name and was calling to check on her.
Rodney's actions immediately sparked suspicion by the police, particularly since he had been sleeping on her couch in the days leading up to the attack. Checking on her a few minutes after the assault sparked red flags and led authorities to suspect him of involvement in the crime.
Investigation
48 Hours shows the investigation into Morgan's assault quickly focused on her ex-husband, Rodney. The police managed to find CCTV footage showing Rodney purchasing zip-ties, which were later found at his home. His internet search history also revealed that he had been researching techniques to choke someone, further implicating him in the crime.
Security footage showed the intruder taking Morgan's phone before the attack. However, the cameras continued recording, providing investigators with crucial evidence. The culmination of this physical evidence and suspicious behavior by Rodney led to his arrest in the early hours of January 1, 2021.
Rodney's attempt to fool Morgan by playing the role of an intruder who cared for her safety further cemented the case against him. His actions (lying about having cancer during the weeks before the attack and sleeping on Morgan's couch) showed a pattern of manipulation and control.
Resolution
Rodney Metzer was apprehended shortly after the attack, and the investigation made it clear that the crime was premeditated. Morgan felt afterward that Rodney did not attack her out of insanity but had a plan for quite some time.
This event marked the start of legal proceedings that would ensure that he was brought before a judge and held accountable for what had happened. Since then, Morgan has been focused on her healing while working to build a better future for her children.
Aftermath
In the wake of the tragic occurrences, Morgan Metzer has found herself crusading for issues of domestic violence. The mother of twins Mills and Mason stays in Woodstock, Georgia; the twins are now 12. Morgan works at Shiplap and Sugar, LLC. She is also an outspoken advocate for those who experienced domestic abuse.
She started having a presence on TikTok in 2021, through which she shares updates regarding her case and educates others about narcissistic behaviors in relationships. Morgan continues to rebuild her life after the horrific ordeal, finding support on social media by connecting with other victims who have had similar experiences.
Morgan remains single as she focuses on her children. Her story of survival has captured the attention of many, offering hope to those in similar struggles.
48 Hours season 38 episode 11 airs on December 14 on CBS.