So Strawberries and Cream part 1 was on TNT last night.  I hadn't realized it at the time but in hindsight it is very clear that either LaRoche or CBI Karl gave the bomber/gas station attendant keys to free himself from the cuffs when he was put into the cop car....most likely LaRoche from the looks of it.  His escape attempt then allowed LaRoche to kill him with impunity.  

Why does this matter?  It ties into the theory that the Ardilles/LaRoche murders were about tying up BA loose ends rather than some Hiabach revenge plot. 

Also, if I'm being cynical - and why not? - the episode includes another instance of Jane using a supposed profession of love to Lisbon to misdirect a bad guy.  (As he would later do when he fake kills her at the end of season 4.)  If history is repeating himself, perhaps the plane scene isn't as lame as it seems. 

My optimism knows no bounds...