NCIS season 15 episode 21 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Sara Carter, seeking justice for her murdered mother, a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, confronts NCIS. Despite initial hesitance, Gibbs and his team take on the case. They uncover that Sara's mother, Mae Carter, was investigating a prescription drug ring linked to a hostel's owner, Jax Wesley. Jax's gun is identified as the murder weapon, but he dies while fleeing from NCIS. Eventually, an accomplice involved in the drug thefts is arrested for Mae's murder. The case sheds light on the struggles of homeless veterans, as Sara, facing financial troubles and fearing for her son's custody, reluctantly accepts help from a support organization for female vets.
Full Episode S15E21 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the episode?
"One Step Forward"
Who is Sara Carter?
Sara Carter is the daughter of murdered retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Mae Carter.
Why was Sara Carter arrested?
Sara was arrested after causing a disturbance at the NCIS front gate, demanding justice for her mother's murder.
Who was Mae Carter?
Mae Carter was a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer and former command investigator.
What was the main suspect, Robert Flynn's, involvement in Mae's murder?
Robert Flynn, a reformed burglar, denied involvement in Mae's murder but mentioned hearing an argument at Mae's house.
Why was NCIS hesitant to take Mae Carter's case initially?
The case did not fall under NCIS jurisdiction as Mae's murder occurred off-base.
What financial troubles was Sara Carter facing?
Sara was in significant debt and living in her car with her son, Theo.
What evidence suggested Mae Carter was investigating a drug ring?
Mae had a list of tracking numbers from a mail-order pharmacy, indicating she was tracking missing packages linked to a drug ring.
How was Jax Wesley connected to Mae Carter's murder?
Jax Wesley owned a hostel involved in the drug ring and his gun was identified as the murder weapon.
Who ultimately killed Mae Carter?
An accomplice in the prescription drug theft, working with Jax Wesley, killed Mae Carter.
What organization offered help to Sara Carter?
Final Salute, an organization supporting female veterans, offered help to Sara.
Why did Sara initially refuse help from Final Salute?
Sara feared admitting she needed help would lead to her losing custody of her son, Theo.
What was the outcome of the case?
NCIS arrested Mae Carter's killer and Sara Carter accepted help for herself and her son.
What does the episode highlight about veterans?
The episode highlights the challenges faced by homeless veterans, particularly women.
What was Abby's dilemma regarding The Cooler?
Abby struggled to choose a companion to join her for a dinner at The Cooler, a unique restaurant.