
Mystery writer and amateur detective Jessica Fletcher - a down-to-earth, middle-aged widow - ferrets out the criminals in idyllic Cabot Cove, Maine, which apparently is the murder capital of the United States for the show's 12-season run. Though while traveling, she uncovers a fair number of killers as well.

Michael Hagarty (Len Cariou) is suspected of murdering his future son-in-law, thought to be involved in an illegal banking scheme.

Jessica investigates her accountant and uncovers his gambling, an illegal casino and a police officer's murder.

A man (George Segal) who claims Jessica's novel closely resembles the story of his first wife's murder sues Jessica.

A London friend invites Jessica to rewrite a play based on her novel and is accused of murdering a manipulative producer/financier.