‘What Jennifer Did’: The Biggest Takeaways From The True Crime Documentary
The newly released true crime documentary, ‘What Jennifer Did,’ delves into the shocking story of the double homicide involving Jennifer Pan’s parents in Markham, Ontario. Directed by Jenny Popplewell, the 87-minute film showcases real crime scene footage and police interrogations of Jennifer and her ex-boyfriend Daniel Wong following the tragic events of 8th November 2010.
Interviews with police members, a family friend, Jennifer’s schoolmate and her piano teacher offer insights into the case. Released on 10th April 2024, the documentary uncovers the hidden truths behind the seemingly normal Pan family and Jennifer’s involvement in the crime, challenging initial perceptions of innocence.
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Here are the biggest takeaways from ‘What Jennifer Did.’
The Accused Have Been Granted a New Trial After Appeal
At the end of the documentary ‘What Jennifer Did,’ it’s revealed that all those convicted of the murder of Bich Ha Pan, Jennifer Pan’s mother, have been granted a new trial. This news is alarming and perplexing given the documentary’s compelling evidence implicating Jennifer in the murder plot alongside Daniel Wong, Lenford Crawford (aka ‘Homeboy’), Eric Carty and David Mylvaganam.
The documentary aimed to revisit old evidence, reaffirming Jennifer’s guilt. Although details of the appeal and Jennifer’s subsequent fate are not delved into, it’s noted that her father, Hann Pan, has been granted a lifetime no-contact order against her. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Jennifer maintains her innocence in the tragic double homicide of her parents.
Jennifer Tried to Add a Racial Aspect to The Crime
Initially, Jennifer misled the police by falsely describing the attackers as three Black men, one with dreadlocks, another in a hoodie and darker skin and a third with a Jamaican accent. This misinformation fueled racial stereotypes and diverted the investigation’s focus towards finding these non-existent suspects.
In the community of Markham, where the Pan family resided, panic ensued as neighbours feared the attackers might have targeted the wrong house. Markham, known for its diverse cultural makeup and reputation as a safe and peaceful neighbourhood, was shaken by the violent nature of the crime, leaving residents from various backgrounds feeling unsettled and fearful.
Jennifer Claimed That She Was to be The Prime Victim, Not Her Parents
Jennifer recounted to the police that she had a history of self-harm stemming from her parents’ oppressive behaviour, explaining that her recent involvement with ‘Homeboy’ and others was actually an attempt on her own life, not her parents’. She insisted that the attackers were instructed to harm only her, leaving her parents unscathed, but evidence suggested otherwise. Despite uncertainties about her story’s accuracy, her history of self-harm remains unverified.
Jennifer’s mental state was strained by her parents’ strict control and high expectations. Her piano instructor recalled a session where Jennifer lamented her lack of freedom, citing her parents’ constant surveillance, prohibition of her relationship with Daniel, and confinement to piano studies and work. According to Jennifer’s testimony, her life revolved solely around these constraints, with her parents even confiscating her phone and escorting her everywhere she went.
Not Jennifer’s First Attempt at Murder
Jennifer’s involvement in the double homicide reveals a darker history. Before the incident, she had allegedly approached a friend, seeking her father’s demise around 10 months earlier. Despite the payment, the plan fell through, highlighting Jennifer’s long-standing resentment towards her parents. This disturbing revelation sheds light on her troubled mental state and strained familial relationships, previously overlooked.
While law enforcement views it as evidence of premeditated malice, the documentary ‘What Jennifer Did’ delves deeper, exploring the complexities of her life and the motivations behind her unimaginable actions.
Jennifer’s Ex-boyfriend Was Involved
Jennifer Pan allegedly conspired with her ex-boyfriend Daniel Wong to murder her parents. Police discovered that ‘Homeboy’ was connected to Daniel, who was involved in drug dealing. Jennifer’s diary revealed her desire for a perfect relationship with Daniel, despite her parents’ disapproval. Despite breaking up due to her parents’ objections, Jennifer maintained contact with Daniel and harboured romantic feelings.
When Daniel moved on to another woman, Jennifer’s father gave her an ultimatum: choose between Daniel and her family. While she chose her family, her lingering affection for Daniel reportedly fueled her involvement in the murder plot. Jennifer, Daniel and three accomplices were sentenced to life in prison without parole for 25 years.
