Chapter 39: The Facebook Group Deepens Lizzie’s Involvement
Spoiler Warning: This chapter summary contains key plot details from Chapter 39 of She Didn't See It Coming.
Summary
Lizzie sees a new post on the Bryden Frost Facebook group comparing photos of Derek Gardner and Sam Frost under the heading “Team Derek or Team Sam.” She reads comments that suggest “Team Sam” means the user believes Sam is the killer. A user named Brittany Clement claims you can tell a killer by looking at their eyes, and another, Deep Diver, says he has identified possible suspects in the building, including a man with a history of false imprisonment and rape—though the police dismissed him. Lizzie cannot resist posting under her Emma Porter alias. She claims to know someone in the police and then shares a close-up photo of Bryden’s face that no one has seen before. She writes that she knows how Bryden died, later posting that she was asphyxiated with a plastic bag and that there was no sexual assault. When challenged by Karen Hennin, Lizzie sticks to her story of a police source. But Brittany Clement hints that she might have known Bryden. Lizzie becomes anxious when Brittany remains silent after the question. She continues posting, enjoying the attention, and even takes credit for suggesting the cadaver dog that found Bryden. The chapter ends with her mother knocking on her bedroom door, calling her to supper.
Key Events
- A Facebook post asks members to choose between Derek Gardner and Sam Frost, sparking heated speculation.
- Deep Diver reveals two potential suspects in the building: a consumer of child pornography and a man previously arrested (but not charged) for false imprisonment and rape.
- Lizzie posts a personal photo of Bryden and claims to have inside knowledge from a police friend.
- She reveals the cause of death (asphyxiation by plastic bag) and the absence of sexual assault.
- Brittany Clement challenges Lizzie by implying she knew Bryden, then refuses to answer further.
- Lizzie shares that she indirectly suggested the use of a cadaver dog, which led to the discovery of the body.
- Her mother interrupts her online activity, calling her to dinner.
Character Development
Lizzie (Emma Porter) becomes increasingly reckless. She relishes the feeling of being an authority figure within the anonymous group, even though her information is obtained through her own involvement in the case. Her decision to post a personal photo of Bryden and to fabricate a police connection shows a growing addiction to attention and a diminishing sense of caution. The challenge from Brittany Clement rattles her, but she does not withdraw.
Brittany Clement emerges as a mysterious figure who may know more than she admits. By refusing to clarify, she unsettles Lizzie and hints at a deeper connection to the victim or the investigation.
Deep Diver and other group members demonstrate how ordinary citizens insert themselves into the investigation, sometimes crossing ethical lines (e.g., doxxing suspects) while believing they are helping.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Anonymity and its Illusions: Lizzie feels safe because she posts anonymously, yet she risks exposure by using a personal photo and claiming a police source. The chapter shows how online anonymity can encourage people to share sensitive information irresponsibly.
The Addictive Nature of Attention: Lizzie’s internal glow when others respond to her posts highlights how group validation can become intoxicating. The phrase “it’s addictive, this sharing” directly captures the theme.
Mob Mentality and Vigilante Justice: Group members rush to judge Derek and Sam based on photos, and Deep Diver’s unofficial background checks threaten to ruin reputations without due process.
False Authority: Lizzie fabricates a police connection to gain credibility, a motif that underscores how easily misinformation spreads when speakers appear knowledgeable.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter 39 represents a turning point in Lizzie’s behavior: she moves from passive observer to active participant in the public narrative. By leaking confidential details and inventing a source, she not only risks her own safety but also jeopardizes the integrity of the investigation. The introduction of Brittany Clement as a potential rival or unknown actor raises the stakes, suggesting that Lizzie’s actions may have alerted someone close to the case. This chapter also deepens the novel’s critique of online communities where speculation can harm real lives.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Lizzie feel compelled to post in the Facebook group despite the risks?
She craves the feeling of importance and belonging that the group provides. The anonymity makes her feel safe, and the positive reactions from other members are intoxicating. Her stated motivation is to share what she knows, but the narrative shows she is driven by a desire for attention and validation.
2. What effect does Brittany Clement’s challenge have on Lizzie?
Brittany’s ambiguous “Maybe I did” (referring to knowing Bryden) immediately unsettles Lizzie, who wonders if someone is playing with her. The refusal to answer afterwards leaves Lizzie anxious and unsure, undermining her earlier confidence. It reminds her that she is not in control of the narrative.
3. How does this chapter illustrate the dangers of anonymous online communities?
The Facebook group allows misinformation (e.g., judging innocence by eye expression), vigilante investigations (Deep Diver’s background checks), and leaks of sensitive case details (Lizzie’s posts). Because users feel shielded, they share unvetted information that could prejudice the investigation, harm innocent people, and put themselves at risk of exposure or retaliation.