A young boy, DANNY SOLANO, is found dead on an idyllic beach in the small seaside town of Gracepoint, spurring a major investigation lead by Detective EMMETT CARVER, who has just arrived in Gracepoint to fill a high position in the town's police force. That job previously had been promised to Detective ELLIE MILLER, who, in light of the tragedy, must put any resentment aside and work the case with her prickly new boss. Danny's parents MARK, and his older sister, CHLOE are devastated by the news, which carves a powerfully dark wake through the town as friends become suspects

With the investigation in full swing, Mark Solano is brought in for questioning after getting caught in a lie. Then, Gemma reveals a secret to the detectives and Carver interviews Ellie's husband, Tom.