NCIS season 9 episode 21 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

In "NCIS 9x21," the team investigates a warehouse fire linked to United Equinox Electronics, storing Navy project materials. They find a body, leading them to Carter Plimpton, a United Equinox employee with ties to a secretive Navy group, Phantom Eight. The investigation reveals the use of a unique thermite compound, pointing to a skilled arsonist. Connecting the warehouse fire to a similar incident on a cargo ship, they identify Bruce Johnson as the arsonist. Johnson, posing as a fire inspector, is confronted and apprehended, unraveling a complex plot endangering Navy security.

Full Episode S09E21 Recap

### Opening Scene: Crime Scene Discovery - The episode opens with firefighters and NCIS agents at a warehouse fire. - A dead body is found, leading to the involvement of the Medical Examiner (M.E.) and Arson Unit. - Captain and his team discuss the site, owned by United Equinox Electronics, storing various items including Navy projects. ### Introducing Key Characters - NCIS agents Tony DiNozzo, Ziva David, and others arrive at the scene. - Tony meets Jason King from the Baltimore PD Arson Unit, revealing a past connection. - Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard examines the body, suggesting it's the fire's ignition point. ### Investigation at the Warehouse - The team inspects the warehouse, finding burned files and a particular drawer that had been tampered with. - They discover the last person to access the warehouse was Carter Plimpton, an employee of United Equinox. - It's revealed that the case is related to the Navy, making it an NCIS matter. ### Delving into Plimpton's Background - The team digs into Plimpton's life, uncovering connections to Navy projects and a group called Phantom Eight. - They find that Plimpton was involved in top-secret work, contradicting his initial profile as a civilian employee. ### Investigation Progresses - NCIS team members pursue different leads, including interviewing Plimpton's colleagues and examining fire patterns. - They discover the use of a special kind of thermite in the fire, indicating a sophisticated arsonist. ### Arson Expert Consultation - The team consults Billy Wayne, a convicted arsonist, to gain insights into the arsonist's mindset and methods. - They learn about the unique way thermite was used, pointing to a meticulous and experienced arsonist. ### Connecting the Dots - Further investigation reveals a connection between the warehouse fire and a second fire on a cargo ship. - The team realizes both incidents involved the same arsonist, who seems to have intricate knowledge of fires and United Equinox's products. ### Climactic Revelation and Confrontation - Abby Sciuto, the forensic scientist, identifies the arsonist as Bruce Johnson, who had posed as a fire department inspector. - In a tense confrontation, Johnson reveals his motives before a failed attempt at escape. - The episode concludes with the NCIS team piecing together the full extent of the arsonist's plan and its implications for Navy security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the main characters in this episode of NCIS?

NCIS agents Tony DiNozzo, Ziva David, and others, including Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard.

What triggers the involvement of the NCIS team in this episode?

The discovery of a dead body at a warehouse fire leads to the involvement of NCIS.

Whose warehouse is under investigation?

The warehouse belongs to United Equinox Electronics.

What is the relationship between Tony DiNozzo and Jason King?

Tony DiNozzo and Jason King have a past connection, as they know each other from before.

What was Carter Plimpton's role at United Equinox?

Carter Plimpton was an employee of United Equinox, involved in top-secret Navy projects.

What is the significance of the group Phantom Eight in this episode?

Phantom Eight is connected to Navy projects and Plimpton was part of it, indicating high-level, secretive work.

What unique element was used in the arson case?

A special kind of thermite was used, indicating a sophisticated arsonist.

Who is Billy Wayne, and why is he consulted?

Billy Wayne is a convicted arsonist consulted for insights into the arsonist's methods.

How does the NCIS team identify the arsonist?

Through forensic analysis and investigation, they identify Bruce Johnson, who posed as a fire department inspector.

What is Bruce Johnson's connection to the fires?

Bruce Johnson is the arsonist behind both the warehouse and cargo ship fires.

What was Johnson's motive for the arson?

Johnson's motive is revealed during his confrontation with the NCIS team

Watch NCIS season 9 episode 21 Online

Rekindled