“It was problematic to act on your request,” she said, “owing to the quality of the recording and conditions. Our team took great pains to examine all pertinent elements.”

Reeves said that examiners first broke down the recording frame by frame, and enhanced the quality. Then, in studying the forward lighting, they took into account a spectrum of factors—weather conditions, the ambient light, the quality of the camera, and the cleanliness of the windshield. They also looked at light intensity, the beam pattern, and beam angles.

“The power of the lights is a factor in determining intensity, along with the mounting location, the aim, the shape, and dirt and wear on the lamps.”

Reeves said work was done to determine if the headlights were halogen lamps, LED, or HID, high-intensity discharge.

“There’s a range within intensity values and the angles of different designs. You need to look at the characteristics of lamp housings, the impact on beam distribution, and, again, placement horizontally and vertically. Because mounting is a factor when weighing back-reflected light in weather conditions like fog.”

The university researchers then conducted several simulation tests, approximating the conditions with headlight designs that met specifications set by the Department of Transportation.

“Fortunately, we had the advantage of studying taillight configuration from the recording.”

Reeves said that in the case of the taillights, the team also looked at arrangement, the use of a reflector or diffuser, and the path length of the light.

After her summary, she ran the video in slow motion, controlling white pointer arrows that touched specific areas of the headlamps, and then the taillights, as she reviewed her key points.

The license plate was not visible.

“Upon examining all these factors, we were unable to determine a specific year and model for the vehicle in the recording.”

Noble felt the air in the room deflate and braced for disappointment, knowing that going to the lighting experts had been a long shot.

“However,” Reeves said, “we can say with confidence that the vehicle is not a passenger car, not an SUV, or minivan, or larger vehicle. We’re confident that it is a light truck, or what is called a pickup truck, no older than five years.”

“A pickup truck? You’re sure, professor?” Noble’s eyebrows lifted as he took in the positive nods rippling around the table.

“We’re sure, Detective.”

“This is very helpful.”

“Extremely helpful, Professor Reeves,” Captain Dan Billersby said.

“Thank you,” Noble said. “You’ve put us on the right track.”

***

Prior to the call, the investigation had no substantial leads concerning a suspect or a vehicle. The dash camera video—with the fog, dust, and blurred recording—was considered a lost cause, evidence of no value.

Now that had changed.

After the call, investigators, buoyed by the break, launched into a brainstorming session with those in the room and on the line.