Why Dominic Vail Was Killed Off in NCIS: Los Angeles Season 1 – Adam Jamal Craig’s Exit Explained
Over its 14-season run, NCIS: Los Angeles saw many characters come and go — but one of the most shocking departures happened early on. Special Agent Dominic Vail, played by Adam Jamal Craig, was abruptly written off in Season 1, leaving fans stunned. While his character didn’t make it to the season finale, his death in Episode 21, “Found,” marked a turning point for the show — and still resonates with longtime viewers.
Dominic Vail’s Death Came After a Long Disappearance
Dominic Vail was introduced as a rookie field agent — bright, dedicated, and a bit green — and quickly became a key member of the NCIS Office of Special Projects. However, midway through Season 1, Dom mysteriously disappears after being kidnapped by religious extremists in Episode 12. The team doesn’t even realize he’s missing until the following episode when they receive a distress signal from him.
It isn’t until Episode 21 that Dom is found — injured but alive. The joy of his rescue is short-lived. During the ensuing firefight, Dom sacrifices himself by stepping in front of a bullet meant for Sam Hanna (LL Cool J). His death is sudden, heroic, and emotionally devastating, especially as it marked the first main character to be killed off in the series.
Dom’s Exit Wasn’t About Story — It Was About Shock Value
What made Dom’s death even more surprising was that it wasn’t driven by behind-the-scenes drama or the actor wanting to leave. In fact, Adam Jamal Craig reportedly had no intention of leaving the series.
Executive producer Shane Brennan explained in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that Dom’s death was part of his creative philosophy: keep the audience on their toes. Brennan revealed that in the first season, he saw all characters as “expendable” and wanted viewers to know “no one’s safe.” The decision to kill off Dom was meant to shake up expectations and add unpredictability to the show.
“I want [the audience] to know that nothing is sacred. And the cast is aware that this is the game I play. No one’s safe.” – Shane Brennan
While that approach succeeded in surprising viewers, it also left many disappointed. Dom’s death felt abrupt and arguably unnecessary — especially since no other early-season character received such a dramatic and final send-off. Unlike other long-running characters who left the show later, Dom’s exit offered no closure, no buildup, and no chance for return.
What Happened to Adam Jamal Craig After NCIS: LA?
Following his departure from NCIS: Los Angeles, Adam Jamal Craig took on a few small roles, but he largely stepped away from the spotlight. He appeared in films and TV shows such as In Time (as Girard), Armed Response (as Marc Webber), and had a brief but memorable role as Rolando on The Office. Before joining NCIS: LA, Craig also had roles in popular series like The O.C. and Heroes.
While his screen time has been limited in recent years, his portrayal of Dominic Vail continues to be one of his most recognized and impactful roles. Dom’s brief but meaningful arc remains a standout moment in NCIS: Los Angeles history — not just for the emotional gut punch it delivered, but for how unexpectedly it arrived.
