Fenton, California is shocked when local lawyer Paul James, a model citizen and house-father considering to stand in municipal elections, is shot in his instantly torched car in front of his home. His second wife Beth is arrested and charged after cash and the murder weapon, Pauls own gun, are found. Insurance investigator Jerry Calhoun, a former cop, on the case because Paul had a life insurance since three weeks, realizes lazy police detective Rhodess utter incompetence. When Beth escapes, even step-daughter Robin still reports her to the police. Calhoun however makes sure the truth is discovered starting from blackmail and embezzlement Paul was involved in.