A cunning and methodical criminal, Roy Martin, commits a series of brazen thefts and murders in Los Angeles. The film begins as Roy is interrupted by a police officer during a burglary, leading to a fatal shootout where the officer is killed. As Roy systematically evades capture by using his technical expertise and adapting his tactics, the Los Angeles Police Department becomes increasingly desperate to apprehend him. Sergeant Marty Brennan and his partner, Chuck Jones, along with Captain Breen, head the intense investigation. Utilizing emerging forensic technologies and investigative techniques, the team works tirelessly to piece together clues and track Roy's movements.

As the story unfolds, tensions rise within the department and among the officers as they confront both personal and professional challenges in their pursuit of the elusive fugitive. Each close encounter with Roy heightens their determination and reveals more about his cold, calculated nature, but capturing him proves increasingly difficult. The manhunt intensifies, pushing the police force to their limits as Roy continues to stay one step ahead. The relentless pursuit builds suspense through a meticulous depiction of police procedures versus the cunning of a hardened criminal, leading to a riveting chase that keeps the audience on edge.