Murder at the Mall: The Michelle Martinko Case | Full Episode
- Dec 19, 2023
- 41:01
- Full Episode
Michelle Martinko fought for her life in a parking lot. Her attacker was left bleeding — creating the evidence that solved the case. “48 Hours” contributor Jamie Yuccas reports. Watch more full episodes of "48 Hours" on Pluto TV.
True crime. Real justice. "48 Hours" investigates the most intriguing crime and justice cases that touch on all areas of the human experience including greed and passion. "48 Hours," which premiered in 1988, has developed a rich history of original reporting and impact journalism that has helped exonerate wrongly convicted people, caused cold cases to be reopened and solved, and along the way changed lives.
Brief Summary
The murder of Michelle Martinko in 1979 is solved decades later through DNA evidence linking Jerry Burns to the crime.
Key points
- The Murder of Michelle Martinko. In December 1979, 18-year-old Michelle Martinko was brutally murdered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
- A Cold Case Reopened. After years of investigation, DNA technology finally provided a breakthrough in Michelle's case.
- Genetic Genealogy Leads to Suspects. In 2018, investigators used genetic genealogy to narrow down suspects to three brothers in Iowa.
- DNA Match Revealed. The DNA results showed Jerry Burns was an exact match, leaving investigators speechless.
- Arrest Brings Hope. Michelle's sister reacts to the news of Jerry Burns' arrest after decades of waiting.
- Trial Begins After 40 Years. Jerry Burns goes on trial for the murder of Michelle Martinko, decades after the crime.
Episode highlights
- The Murder of Michelle MartinkoIn December 1979, 18-year-old Michelle Martinko was brutally murdered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.“This was a real fight; it looks personal.”1:19Dec 19, 2023
- A Cold Case ReopenedAfter years of investigation, DNA technology finally provided a breakthrough in Michelle's case.“The biggest break came in 2005; the DNA was the key.”2:33Dec 19, 2023
- Genetic Genealogy Leads to SuspectsIn 2018, investigators used genetic genealogy to narrow down suspects to three brothers in Iowa.“A 38-year trail was heading straight back home.”24:00Dec 19, 2023
- DNA Match RevealedThe DNA results showed Jerry Burns was an exact match, leaving investigators speechless.“I was definitely speechless.”25:59Dec 19, 2023
- Arrest Brings HopeMichelle's sister reacts to the news of Jerry Burns' arrest after decades of waiting.“We were just so excited.”28:32Dec 19, 2023
- Trial Begins After 40 YearsJerry Burns goes on trial for the murder of Michelle Martinko, decades after the crime.29:33Dec 19, 2023
- Guilty VerdictThe jury finds Jerry Burns guilty of first-degree murder, bringing relief to Michelle's family.“The weight of the world was off my shoulders.”37:43Dec 19, 2023
- Legacy of Michelle MartinkoMichelle's case is remembered not just for her death, but for her life and fight.“It's not about how she died, it's about how she lived.”39:47Dec 19, 2023






