Episode 356
- Jun 28, 2026
- 1:10:25
- Full Episode
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
- The Unsolved Case of Brittany ZimmermanTen years after their daughter's murder, the Zimmermans continue to seek justice.“We thought it was going to be solved right away.”2:23Jun 28, 2026
- A Day That Changed EverythingApril 2, 2008, marked the tragic day Brittany was attacked in her apartment.“Their nightmares started on April 2, 2008.”7:09Jun 28, 2026
- The 911 CallJordan Gonnering discovers Brittany's lifeless body and calls for help.“I just came home, the door was busted in, and my girlfriend's been shot.”11:19Jun 28, 2026
- A Random Act of Violence?Investigators consider the possibility of a stranger committing the murder.“Who would want a 21-year-old microbiology student dead?”15:58Jun 28, 2026
- The Investigation's ChallengesThe mix of college students and transients complicates the murder investigation.“The police knew they had a difficult investigation on their hands.”22:32Jun 28, 2026
- Public Outrage Over Police TransparencyThe public backlash began as media uncovered police withholding information about Brittany's case.“The news media smelled something fishy and pushed back requesting more and more records.”37:57Jun 28, 2026
- 911 Call Reveals Disturbing SoundsA lawsuit forced the release of a 911 call that included sounds of a struggle and screaming.“The tape did contain sounds of a struggle and screaming.”38:53Jun 28, 2026
- DNA Evidence Points to David CallNew DNA testing suggests a strong link between Call and Brittany's murder, raising serious questions.“It's very likely that it's your DNA on Brittany's sleeves, as well as especially her jeans.”52:12Jun 28, 2026






