Death in the Dorms is a chilling true crime Hulu docuseries that delves into the tragic murders of college students, exposing the dangers lurking on campuses across the United States. Each episode focuses on a separate case, weaving together interviews with family, friends, and investigators to paint a comprehensive picture of the events leading to each tragedy. The series not only tells the victims’ stories but also sheds light on systemic issues such as hazing, sexual violence, and relationship abuse that contribute to these senseless deaths.

By exploring the intricate details of each case and their subsequent investigations, Death in the Dorms offers viewers a poignant reminder of the vulnerability students face. While each episode presents a unique and harrowing narrative, the series effectively balances sensitivity and investigative precision. The emotional interviews reveal the lasting impact on families and communities, while the advocacy work done in the victims’ names highlights the urgent need for systemic change. Despite varying degrees of storytelling quality, each episode contributes to a broader dialogue around campus safety.

Haley Anderson (Season 2, Episode 2)

Fails To Dive Into The Emotional Complexities Leading Up To Anderson’s Death

In 2018, the murder of Binghamton University student Haley Anderson sparked an international investigation after her ex-boyfriend and killer fled the country. Despite the intriguing international aspect of the case, this episode fails to dive deep enough into the emotional complexities surrounding Anderson’s relationships and the subsequent pursuit of justice. The episode briefly touches on Haley’s vibrant personality and her future ambitions, but it ultimately remains a straightforward recounting of the investigation.

The narrative also lacks sufficient exploration of the intense emotional toll on her family and friends, and the pacing feels uneven. While the international investigation adds an interesting dimension to the case, the storytelling does not build consistent tension or provide a compelling backdrop to Haley’s tragic fate. Consequently, viewers are left wanting a more comprehensive and immersive narrative that could honor Haley’s memory more effectively.

Jenna Burleigh (Season 2, Episode 1)

The Death In The Dorms Episode Glosses Over Jenna’s Relationships

Temple University junior Jenna Burleigh vanished after a night out near campus, prompting a frantic search that uncovered a tragic murder. Jenna Burleigh’s disappearance sent shockwaves through the Temple University community, and her death prompted significant media attention. This episode captures the initial investigation well, providing insight into Jenna’s background and the search efforts that followed.

However, the episode rushes through key details of the investigation and subsequent trial, ultimately glossing over Jenna’s relationships and the broader emotional context. The interviews with Jenna’s family offer a heartbreaking look at their loss and determination for justice, but the episode misses opportunities to delve deeper into Jenna’s aspirations and personality. As a result, viewers are left with a sense that the storytelling is incomplete, lacking the emotional nuance that could have made it a more impactful tribute to Jenna’s memory.

Patrick Moffly (Season 2, Episode 5)

The Exploration Of The Drug Ring Overshadows Patrick Moffy’s Story

Patrick Moffly’s death led investigators to uncover a drug ring operating at the College of Charleston. The death of Patrick Moffly unravels a web of criminal activity at the College of Charleston, offering a glimpse into the underbelly of campus life. The episode explores the investigation’s twists and turns as law enforcement uncovers an operating drug ring.

While the investigation itself is compelling in season 2, episode 5, the episode lacks a clear focus on Patrick Moffly’s personal story, resulting in a somewhat disjointed narrative. The emphasis on the criminal network overshadows the exploration of Patrick’s background and relationships, making it challenging to connect emotionally with his story. Although intriguing and informative regarding the drug ring, the episode could have benefitted from a more comprehensive exploration of Patrick’s life and the broader impact of his death on his community.

Marlin Barnes (Season 2, Episode 3)

Lacks The Emotional Depth Of Other Death In The Dorms Episode

Season 2, episode 3 of Death in the Dorms details a story from 1996 when University of Miami linebacker Marlin Barnes and his friend Timwanika Lumpkins were found murdered on campus. The brutal murders of University of Miami linebacker Marlin Barnes and his friend Timwanika Lumpkins in 1996 sent shockwaves through campus. The episode chronicles their tragic deaths, revealing a chilling tale of jealousy and violence.

The storytelling, however, follows a fairly formulaic approach, with much of the narrative dedicated to the investigation itself. Although the exploration of the motive is well done, the episode lacks immersive emotional depth and could have benefitted from a more detailed exploration of Marlin’s promising future and Timwanika’s vibrant personality. Despite its shortcomings, the episode effectively captures the grim atmosphere of the time and provides insight into the devastating impact of the murders on the Miami sports community.

Max Gruver (Season 2, Episode 4)

Fails To Give Audiences A Comprehensive Understanding Of Max Gruver’s Life

In 2017, Louisiana State University freshman Max Gruver died during a hazing ritual, prompting a nationwide reckoning around Greek life. Max Gruver’s tragic death in 2017 during a hazing ritual shook Louisiana State University and the Greek life community nationwide. The episode recounts the events leading up to Max’s death and the subsequent investigation that highlighted the darker side of fraternity culture. While it balances storytelling and advocacy, the episode could delve deeper into Max’s personality and relationships, providing a more comprehensive understanding of his life.

Nevertheless, it effectively addresses systemic issues around hazing practices and the complexities of Greek life. Interviews with Max’s family and friends add emotional weight to the narrative, and the exploration of legislative changes following his death ensures the episode remains impactful. His parents’ dedication to combating hazing practices and their advocacy for stricter regulations adds another powerful dimension to this episode. The Max Gruver Foundation, established in his memory, continues to raise awareness and fight for change in Greek life nationwide.

Christian Aguilar (Season 1, Episode 2)

Focuses Too Much On The Trial And Overshadows Christian’s Relationships

University of Florida freshman Christian Aguilar was beginning a new chapter in his life with a blossoming relationship before he went missing under mysterious circumstances. The episode about Christian Aguilar is effective in building tension and intrigue around his mysterious disappearance. Interviews with his family and friends reveal a young man who was embarking on an exciting new chapter in his life, creating a poignant contrast to the tragic events that follow.

However, the episode focuses heavily on the investigation and trial, overshadowing a more thorough exploration of Christian’s relationships and vibrant personality. While the interviews with Christian’s family are heartfelt, the storytelling could have been enhanced with a deeper dive into his background and aspirations. Despite this, the episode remains compelling due to its effective pacing and exploration of the mystery surrounding Aguilar’s fate.

Andrea DelVesco (Season 1, Episode 1)

The Death In The Dorms Episode Has A Strong Emotional Undercurrent

UCLA student Andrea DelVesco was found dead in the remains of her apartment after a fire engulfed the building. This haunting episode sets the tone for the series, delving into the tragic events surrounding her death. The narrative skillfully intertwines Andrea’s life and aspirations with the investigation into her death, maintaining a gripping sense of tension throughout. Interviews with her friends and family paint a vivid picture of Andrea’s kind spirit and promising future, ensuring her story is told with care.

The investigation reveals the sinister events that unfolded in Andrea’s apartment building, and the episode maintains a strong emotional undercurrent from start to finish. While it leaves some questions unanswered, the episode captivates viewers with its compelling storytelling and sensitivity. The determination of her family to seek justice and the exploration of campus safety concerns make this episode a poignant and impactful tribute to Andrea’s memory.

Katie Autry (Season 1, Episode 6)

Heartbreakingly Depicts Katie’s Promising Future Before Exploring Systemic Issues Of Campus Safety

After a fraternity party at Western Kentucky University, freshman Katie Autry gets a sober ride back to her dorm. However, a violent attack sent shockwaves through the state. The story of Katie Autry is powerfully told in this episode, which balances emotional storytelling with a gripping investigation. The episode begins with Katie’s promising future before delving into the events following a fraternity party at Western Kentucky University. Her tragic death reveals systemic issues around campus safety and sexual violence.

The investigation uncovers the disturbing details of the violent incident, and interviews with Katie’s family, friends, and investigators provide a comprehensive view of her life and legacy. Despite the heart-wrenching content, the episode keeps viewers engaged from start to finish, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by college students. The determination of Katie’s family to advocate for justice and support victims of sexual violence makes this episode an emotional and compelling watch. The changes in campus safety policies that followed her death highlight the need for stronger protections for students nationwide.

Latasha Norman (Season 2, Episode 6)

A Devastating Look At The Impact Of Relationship Violence

Latasha Norman, a junior at Jackson State University, disappeared after class, and her promising future was tragically cut short when her body was discovered in a woodland. The story of Latasha Norman is a devastating look at the impact of relationship violence and systemic issues around campus safety. This episode masterfully balances storytelling and investigative depth, providing a comprehensive view of Latasha’s life and legacy.

Interviews with her friends, family, and investigators reveal the stark warning signs that were missed and the tragic events leading to her death. The emotional toll on the Jackson State University community is palpable, and Latasha’s story remains one of the most emotionally resonant episodes in the series. By ensuring that her voice is heard throughout, the episode serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protection and support for victims of domestic violence.

Yeardley Love (Season 1, Episode 3)

Cleverly Navigates The Complexities Of Love’s Relationship With Her Ex-Boyfriend

In Death in the Dorms episode 3, Police respond to a call and find the body of UVA lacrosse player Yeardley Love, prompting an investigation that quickly identifies another student-athlete as a suspect. Yeardley Love’s tragic death offers a sobering look at relationship violence on college campuses. This episode navigates the complexities of Yeardley’s relationship with her ex-boyfriend and killer while ensuring her legacy is honored. Interviews with Yeardley’s friends and family reveal her kind spirit and the devastating impact of her death on the University of Virginia community.

The investigation unravels the violent crime, highlighting warning signs that were overlooked. The episode effectively balances sensitivity and storytelling, ensuring that Yeardley’s voice is heard throughout. Its emotional depth and focus on the broader issue of campus relationship violence make it one of the strongest entries in the series. It raises awareness about the warning signs of abusive relationships and advocates for systemic change.

Michael Deng (Season 1, Episode 4)

Perfectly Captures The Nationwide Intrigue Of The Original Story

In Death in the Dorms season 1, episode 4, a weekend retreat takes a tragic turn for Baruch College freshman Michael Deng, and investigators quickly find that his friends are hiding crucial details, which leads to nationwide intrigue. The death of Michael Deng during a fraternity hazing ritual is presented with care and detail in this compelling episode. The storytelling intertwines Michael’s promising future with the grim investigation that followed, revealing a complex web of deception and secrecy.

Interviews with Michael’s family and friends offer a poignant glimpse into his life, while the exploration of the fraternity’s culture and practices sheds light on systemic issues around hazing. The episode captivates viewers with its emotional depth and gripping investigation, ensuring that Michael’s story leaves a lasting impact. The nationwide ramifications that resulted from his death further highlight the need for change in Greek life.

Samantha Josephson (Season 1, Episode 5)

Sheds A Light Of The Dangers Of Rideshare

University of South Carolina student Samantha Josephson was murdered after mistakenly getting into a fake rideshare vehicle just weeks away from graduation. Samantha Josephson’s story is presented with both emotional depth and investigative precision; the episode sheds light on the dangers of rideshare safety while highlighting Samantha’s vibrant personality and her promising future. The investigation is meticulously detailed, keeping viewers captivated as they unravel the tragic events leading to Samantha’s death.

Interviews with Samantha’s friends and family reveal the profound impact of her loss, while the advocacy work that followed her death ensures her legacy endures. The episode’s balance of investigative storytelling and heartfelt interviews leaves a lasting impression on viewers and advocates for critical safety measures. The implementation of “Sami’s Law” following her death, which requires rideshare drivers to display a sharable QR code (via CNN), is a testament to her family’s dedication. The Death in the Dorms episode remains a powerful call to action for improving safety standards in the rideshare industry.

Watch on Hulu