Podcast Summary: 20/20 - True Crime Vault: The Perfect Lie

Introduction

In the gripping episode of ABC News' 20/20 titled "True Crime Vault: The Perfect Lie," listeners are taken through a harrowing true crime case that unfolds like a twisted novel. Released on August 5, 2025, this episode delves deep into the mysterious murder of Donna Winger, the subsequent investigation, and the shocking revelations that led to the conviction of her husband, Mark Winger.

Background: The Winger Family

Mark and Donna Winger were perceived as the epitome of a perfect American couple. After six years of marriage and struggles with infertility, they finally adopted a three-month-old baby girl named Bailey Elizabeth Simic. Their lives in Springfield, Illinois, portrayed an upper-middle-class existence filled with love, family bonding, and community respect.

"Mark and Donna were sort of put on this pedestal as this beautiful young couple who had struggled to have kids." [05:45]

The Crime: A Night of Terror

On August 29, 1995, the Winger family's idyllic life was shattered. Springfield Police responded to a frantic 911 call from Mark Winger, reporting that a man named Roger Harrington was brutally beating his wife, Donna, with a hammer. Donna had been struck multiple times, and Roger was found with two gunshot wounds to the head. The scene was chaotic, with significant evidence pointing towards a violent confrontation.

"Mark Winger ran upstairs from his basement, witnessed the beating death of his wife at the hands of Roger Harrington, and then shot Harrington to death in self-defense." [15:30]

Initial Investigation and Conclusion

The immediate police response painted Mark Winger as a hero defending his wife against a violent intruder. Evidence such as Roger's car being parked incorrectly and his possession of a bank deposit slip with Mark's address suggested a personal connection. The case was swiftly closed within 48 hours, with Mark being lauded for his actions.

"Detective Cox viewed Roger Harrington with great skepticism. 'I thought that he very well could have went over there to try to get his job back. And he snapped.'" [22:10]

Aftermath and Unsettling Behaviors

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Winger family grappled with immense grief. Mark exhibited unusual behaviors, including heavy drinking and watching violent movies like Pulp Fiction. To cope and rebuild their lives, they hired Rebecca, a charming nanny, to help care for Bailey. However, underlying tensions and Mark's distant demeanor began to raise concerns among Donna's family members.

"Mark was quiet. He was off in his own little world. I spent a lot of time with Mark and I'm observing these odd behaviors." [35:50]

Deanne Schultz: The Shocking Revelation

Years later, Donna's best friend, Deanne Schultz, emerged as a pivotal figure in unraveling the truth. Struggling with her own personal demons and grief, Deanne confessed to having an affair with Mark Winger. She revealed incriminating statements made by Mark hinting at his desire for Donna's death, stating, "It would be easier for us to be together if Donna just died." [1:10:15]

This revelation reopened the case, prompting investigators to delve deeper into the inconsistencies of the original investigation. Key pieces of evidence, such as polaroid photographs and Roger's personal items found at the crime scene, no longer aligned with Mark's initial account.

Reopening the Case: Unearthing the Truth

The discovery of overlooked evidence and Deanne's testimony led to a comprehensive reevaluation of the case. Detectives identified discrepancies in the positioning of the bodies and Roger's presence at the scene, suggesting a staged crime scene orchestrated by Mark to eliminate Donna and frame Roger.

"The polaroid photographs show Mr. Harrington and Donna Winger basically laying in the same direction. And as such, there's no way this murder could have happened the way Mark described." [1:45:30]

Trial and Conviction

The prosecution built a compelling case against Mark Winger, highlighting his motive, opportunity, and the manipulated evidence. Deanne's testimony was instrumental in establishing Mark's intent and deceit. Despite Mark's defense arguing self-defense and Roger's alleged mental instability, the jury found him guilty of murdering both Donna and Roger Harrington.

"When I heard the judge read the verdict, it was like insanity. 'Guilty, guilty, guilty.'” [2:30:50]

Mark was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The conviction not only brought justice for Donna but also exonerated Roger's reputation posthumously.

Impact on the Winger Family

The aftermath of the trial left deep scars on the Winger family, especially on Bailey, who lost her mother and now her father as well. Donna's sisters grappled with the loss of their sister and the betrayal by Mark, who had been a beloved brother-in-law and a seemingly devoted husband.

"I think of Donna every day of my life. I think her legacy will live on through the beautiful memories that we have of her." [3:10:25]

Additional Crimes and Final Sentencing

Three years post-conviction, Mark Winger's attempt to plot a murder-for-hire against Deanne Schultz and a childhood friend further cemented his manipulative and malevolent nature. This led to an additional 35-year sentence, making his total time in prison decades-long.

"I was married to a murderer then. After he was convicted, I went from being a stay-at-home mom to being homeless overnight." [3:40:10]

Reconciliation and Healing

Despite the tragedies, Donna's family sought ways to heal and preserve her memory. Efforts were made to reconnect Bailey with her extended family, ensuring that Donna's legacy of love and warmth lived on through her daughter.

"There's not a day that goes by that I don't. I think about him. I miss him." [4:00:45]

Conclusion

"The Perfect Lie" serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities hidden beneath seemingly perfect facades. Mark Winger's ability to manipulate perceptions and orchestrate a perfect crime underscores the fragility of trust and the profound impact of deceit within a family. This episode of 20/20 not only unravels a chilling true crime story but also highlights the enduring strength of family bonds in the face of unimaginable loss.

Notable Quotes

• "Mark made me feel like I was like an angel sent to him from God or Donna." – Rebecca [1:20:05]

• "He picks up a hammer, goes into a raid. Then the husband shoots the bad guy." – Detective Cox [0:40:20]

• "You can't ever. I think Mark was a master manipulator." – Deanne Schultz [3:50:30]

Speaker Attribution with Timestamps

• Narrator: Provides overarching commentary and sets the scene.

• Mark Winger: Featured in 911 calls and personal recounts of the event.

• Detective Cox: Offers insights into the investigation and initial skepticism.

• Deanne Schultz: Delivers crucial testimony that alters the course of the investigation.

• Family Members: Share personal experiences and the emotional toll of the case.

• Rebecca (Nanny): Introduces her role in the Wingers' life and her observations.

Final Thoughts

"True Crime Vault: The Perfect Lie" is a masterful exploration of deceit, manipulation, and the quest for justice. Through meticulous storytelling and emotional interviews, 20/20 brings to light the dark undercurrents of a family torn apart by tragedy and betrayal.