Forensic Files

Episode 356

Sword and Scale

  • Jun 28, 2026
  • 1:10:25
  • Full Episode
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In 2008, University of Wisconsin–Madison student Brittany Zimmermann was murdered in her apartment in the middle of the day, and then the trail went cold. An unlikely informant leads the police to search for two mystery men, a theory that would steer the investigation for years. As time passed and leads fell apart, the case slowly faded from view. Twelve years later, detectives discovered the truth wasn’t buried; it had been right in front of them all along.<br /><br />Get instant access to all episodes, including premium unreleased episodes, commercial-free at swordandscale.com

Brief Summary

Brittany Zimmerman's murder case spans over a decade, culminating in David Call's arrest and confession.

Key points

  • The Unsolved Case of Brittany Zimmerman. Ten years after their daughter's murder, the Zimmermans continue to seek justice.
  • A Day That Changed Everything. April 2, 2008, marked the tragic day Brittany was attacked in her apartment.
  • The 911 Call. Jordan Gonnering discovers Brittany's lifeless body and calls for help.
  • A Random Act of Violence?. Investigators consider the possibility of a stranger committing the murder.
  • The Investigation's Challenges. The mix of college students and transients complicates the murder investigation.
  • Public Outrage Over Police Transparency. The public backlash began as media uncovered police withholding information about Brittany's case.

Episode highlights

Tension

85/ 100High tension

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