In NCIS: Los Angeles Season 14, Episode 4, titled “Dead Stick,” the team faces one of their most emotionally charged and nail-biting investigations. Sam Hanna, portrayed by LL Cool J, receives shocking news that his son Aiden’s plane has crashed. The alarming call thrusts Sam into an intense personal crisis, as he learns that Aiden had to be airlifted for medical attention. While Aiden survives the crash, the situation quickly escalates when he is accused of being at fault for the crash. As Aiden is taken to the hospital, a representative arrives to take his statement, putting Sam’s son under even more scrutiny. With his child’s life at risk, Sam’s worst fears are realized, and the NCIS LA team immediately springs into action to clear Aiden’s name and uncover what really happened. Their investigation dives deep into the possible causes of the crash, including potential mechanical failures, human error, and even the possibility of foul play. As the investigation progresses, Sam must grapple with his personal emotions while trying to protect his son from accusations that threaten his future.
Meanwhile, Agent Devin Rountree, played by Caleb Castille, deals with the emotional fallout from a traumatic experience in the previous season, when he was subject to a racist police stop that led to the assault of both him and his sister. Rountree grapples with the decision of whether to push for harsher punishment for the officers involved. In a heartfelt conversation with Agent Fatima Namazi (Medalion Rahimi), Rountree struggles with the weight of his emotions and the stress that continues to affect him. Fatima stands by him, offering a reassuring perspective that no matter what Rountree decides, it is important that he makes the choice for himself. The supportive dialogue between the two characters highlights the internal battle Rountree faces, as well as the solidarity between the agents.
Additionally, Sam faces personal challenges outside of his work with the team. His father, who is suffering from dementia, has been relying on a caretaker to help with his daily needs. However, Sam finds himself in another difficult situation when his father goes missing from the adult daycare facility, with a caregiver calling Sam to notify him that his father left the premises. This lapse in care raises serious concerns for Sam, leading him to seek a new caretaker for his father, further adding to the emotional burden Sam is already carrying.
The episode, “Dead Stick,” is packed with high stakes, tense moments, and heartfelt storylines. As the team rallies together to support Sam and his family, viewers are treated to a gripping combination of family drama and intense investigation, setting the stage for a captivating and emotional episode. Sam’s determination to protect his son and confront his own personal struggles showcases the deep emotional core of NCIS: Los Angeles, making it an episode fans won’t want to miss.
