Colter Shaw has had a few love interests throughout Tracker’s two seasons, but in season 2, episode 17, he implies that one woman is “the one” who slipped through his fingers. Colter is more of a lone wolf in the CBS series. As a result, he doesn’t hold down a girlfriend for very long (if at all). Still, the protagonist has experienced romance over the years, whether with the sister of a missing woman whose case haunted Colter or with one of his rivals. Ultimately, though, Colter’s lost love mentioned in Tracker season 2, episode 17, could be narrowed down to four options.
Randy calls Colter for help in Tracker season 2, episode 17, “Memories.” Randy’s ex-girlfriend, Megan (his “one who got away”), is in trouble after her friend, Sonia, goes missing following a wild night in Reno. Colter arrives to track Sonia down, and, long story short, he’s successful. However, the hour’s most interesting part comes when Randy presses Colter about his love life and if he has someone like Megan — a woman he views as “the one” for him, but their timing is off. Colter never gives a straight answer, but his reaction implies he has someone in mind when Randy questions him.
If you’re hooked on Tracker and obsessed with unraveling Colter Shaw’s emotional past, you’re not alone. Season 2 is diving deeper into the rugged hero’s personal life—and fans are buzzing about one big mystery: Who is the “One Who Got Away”? Is it an old flame, a childhood crush, or someone from a case gone wrong? Let’s break it all down and explore every possible candidate for Colter’s lost love.
What Does “The One Who Got Away” Mean for Colter?
The phrase “the one who got away” usually hits deep. For Colter, it’s about more than just romance—it’s tied to his trauma, his trust issues, and the life he could have had. So when Season 2 starts hinting at someone from his past? Yeah, it’s personal.
Why Season 2 of Tracker Is All About the Past
A Shift From Cases to Character
Season 1 focused heavily on Colter solving high-stakes cases. But Season 2? It’s peeling back layers. We’re getting more flashbacks, deeper emotional threads, and—most intriguingly—a glimpse at Colter’s vulnerable side.
The Tease in Episode 3
Remember that scene in Episode 3 when Colter stares off into the distance while holding an old photo? That wasn’t random. It was our first real clue about a woman from his past—someone he clearly still thinks about.
The Leading Candidates for Colter’s “One Who Got Away”
We’re not just guessing here. We’ve combed through every episode, every line of dialogue, and every subtle glance. Here are the top contenders.
1. Lizzy – The Brilliant Psychologist from Season 1
Why She Fits the Bill
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Instant chemistry? Check.
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Deep emotional talks? Check.
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Sudden goodbye without closure? Triple check.
Lizzy wasn’t just a love interest—she understood Colter. Their connection was cerebral and emotional. If she left due to danger or fear of getting too close, that would make her a perfect “one who got away.”
2. Sarah – The Cop Who Shared His Darkness
The One Who Saw Too Much
Sarah knew about Colter’s trauma, and she didn’t run. But maybe that’s what scared him. She could be the one he pushed away to protect her—or himself.
Could Season 2 be hinting that he regrets letting her go?
3. Emily – The Civilian Caught in a Case
The Unexpected Connection
Emily wasn’t a cop, a doctor, or a fellow tracker. She was just someone who got pulled into a case—and into Colter’s heart.
Sometimes, love hits you when you least expect it. And sometimes, it leaves just as quickly.
4. Madison – The College Sweetheart
A Life He Never Had
Back before Colter became who he is now, there might’ve been someone who represented normalcy. Madison could’ve been the “what if” girl. The one he might’ve married if fate hadn’t steered him into chaos.
5. The Anonymous Woman in the Photograph
The Ultimate Mystery
Could the “one who got away” be someone we haven’t met yet? Maybe she’s part of a deeper storyline still unfolding. The writers are playing the long game—and this photo may be the breadcrumb trail leading us to the truth.
Clues Hidden Throughout Season 2
Flashbacks That Hit Different
Flashback sequences are dropping subtle hints—especially in how Colter reacts to certain locations or moments of silence. Watch closely. He’s haunted, and it shows.
Conversations With His Brother
In a recent episode, Colter’s brother mentioned “that woman from before everything went sideways.” We’re betting that was not a throwaway line.
What the Original Book Series Suggests
Jeffrey Deaver’s Inspiration
Tracker is based on Jeffery Deaver’s Colter Shaw novels. In the books, Colter does have a few love interests, but none that anchor him down—mirroring the show’s theme of impermanence and longing.
Could the showrunners be crafting their own love arc? Possibly one that diverges from the books?
Fan Theories That Are Too Good to Ignore
Reddit’s Top Theory
One theory getting a lot of traction? That Colter’s lost love was part of a case that went wrong—and she blames him for it. Now that would add layers to the pain.
Twitter Thinks She’s Still Alive and Watching
Some fans believe she’s following Colter’s work from afar. Maybe she still loves him. Maybe she’s waiting for the right moment to reconnect. Romantic? Absolutely. Realistic? Who knows.
Will We Finally Meet Her in Season 2?
If the writers are planting seeds now, we might see her before the finale—or at least get a full backstory. Fans are hungry for answers, and let’s be honest, a slow-burn emotional reveal would be TV gold.
Why It Matters So Much to Fans
Colter is a man of mystery and muscle—but this subplot gives him soul. Knowing he once loved (and lost) makes him real, relatable, and all the more compelling.
What It Means for the Future of Tracker
If his lost love returns, it could change everything. Could Colter finally settle down? Or will it tear open old wounds? Either way, it’s going to hit hard—and we’ll be watching.
Conclusion: Love Lost, or Love on the Horizon?
The mystery of the “one who got away” in Tracker Season 2 isn’t just about who Colter once loved. It’s about why he’s still chasing shadows. Whether she returns or remains a painful memory, she’s a key to unlocking Colter’s true self.
Stay tuned. The emotional payoff is coming—and it’s going to be worth the wait.
