When Jane and Maura are asked to present the case of serial killer Charles Hoyt at a symposium for law enforcement, Jane worries that her greatest challenge will be facing bad memories. However, as she and Maura begin a simulation of investigating Hoyt’s murders, they soon come across a horrifying discovery. In a matter of moments, the team finds themselves drawn into a lethal game of cat and mouse with a new and terrifying serial killer.

A kidnapper dressed as a clown re-emerges after 20 years; Jane's relationship with Casey grows more serious; Maura inadvertently gets in the middle of another relationship.