Emmerdale fans have been anxiously waiting to find out the final fate of corrupt policeman DI Malone – and tonight (August 19) they got their answer.
During Monday's (August 17) episode, viewers saw Malone's former lover Harriet Finch (Katherine Dow Blyton) hit him over the head with a kettle in an attempt to protect Dawn Taylor.
The cliffhanger left fans guessing over Malone's fate, and in the 24 hours after the episode aired, over 1000 Digital Spy readers voted on whether or not they thought Harriet had killed Malone.
The final result saw 56% of the participants arguing that she probably hadn't.
Well, it turns out the majority were right, as tonight's episode revealed Malone wasn't dead. But in another shocking twist, he didn't stay alive for long.
When we rejoined them, Harriet and Dawn were both in shock as Malone lay unconscious on the floor.
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But while their backs were turned, he arose and came towards them with a candlestick, saying the police would never get there in time to help.
To protect herself and Harriet, Dawn then shot him three times with his own gun to ensure he wouldn't get up again.
The violent scene happened less than five minutes into the episode and left many viewers completely shocked.
With Malone now definitely dead, tensions were high between Harriet and Dawn as they argued over what to do.
While Dawn thought the police would be understanding given that Malone was corrupt, Harriet insisted they cover up the murder.
After washing the blood off the floor, Harriet wrapped Malone's body in a rug, planning to bury him somewhere he couldn't ever be found.
Related: Emmerdale star Eden Taylor-Draper predicts future heartbreak for Belle in Jamie storyline
But just as they got the body out of the house and into the car boot, Will returned from the pub with food, forcing the two women to go inside.
Will Dawn and Harriet come clean to Will and ask for his help? Or will both women be able to keep their dark secret?
Emmerdale currently airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7pm on ITV.
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