In 1980, Detective Wayne Hays is assigned to investigate the disappearance of two siblings, a case that gets no closure and thus remains with him as he grows old and retires.
As Hays and West continue their investigation, secrets about the Purcell family come to light. A doll found near Will's body provides a clue.
Hays and West dive into the history of the Purcell children and their regular visits to the woods. Tensions rise as the search for the missing Julie continues, leading to an attack on a Native American man.
As possible suspects start to emerge, the tension in town threatens to lead to a disaster. Lucy Purcell makes a startling confession.
The confrontation at Woodard's house turns deadly. Hays and West's superior opt for a tidy closure of the case despite evidence to the contrary.
Hays reconsiders some of their old findings as more revelations come to light. Tom Purcell's pursuit of the truth puts his life on the line.
Despite the case deemed solved, Hays and West continue to investigate the connection between Lucy Purcell and Harris James, leading to unexpected consequences.
Years after they were assigned to the case, Hays and West finally uncover the tragic story of what happened to the Purcell children.