True, a familiar story, but featuring three very talented young actors. It's back to a mental hospital, where a young woman is released after three years --and the murders begin. Being trampled by a horse is not for the faint of heart, but probably the best way for a murderer to escape with few clues, and was often used by writers on the series. Not to forget CHARLIE CHAN and SHERLOCK HOLMES used the same techniques. Arthur Bernard Lewis wrote this episode, his only for the series, later senior producer for DALLAS.
One of the best, A. Martinez, plays Tomas, and in a very good role. Martinez is still acting today, recently on THE BAY. James Carroll Jordan (as Michael) co-stars, and a year earlier made several appearances on RICH MAN, POOR MAN, BOOK II in the part of Billy. Female guest star Cynthia Avila also has a prime role, later featured on KNOTS LANDING.
It's always a treat to see veteran Russell Thorsen, who was frequently cast on CANNON, this time playing the wise, old doctor. Joseph Manduke directed, who also worked on HAWAII FIVE O. Interestingly, he later became an instructor at USC. He passed in 2020.
Again, the acting takes front seat here, particularly A. Martinez, who was a staple on tv for decades, later becoming a producer and screen writer. No production notes as to where this was filmed, possibly at Lancaster, CA, with lots of countryside.
SEASON 6 EPISODE 13 remastered color. Christmas 1977 episode.