Going West: True Crime - Episode 465: Suzanne Simpson
Release Date: January 1, 2025
Hosts: Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman
Producer: Dark West Productions
Introduction
In Episode 465 of Going West: True Crime, hosts Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman delve into the perplexing and tragic case of Suzanne Simpson, a beloved mother and community member from San Antonio, Texas. Released on January 1, 2025, this episode meticulously unpacks the events leading to Suzanne's disappearance, the ensuing investigation, and the disturbing revelations about her husband, Brad Simpson.
Background: Suzanne and Brad Simpson
Suzanne Clark Simpson, born on June 16, 1973, was a 51-year-old mother of four, known for her kindness and dedication to her family and community. She met her college sweetheart, Brad Simpson, at the University of Texas in Austin, where she earned her Bachelor's of Science in Communications in 1995. The couple married in 2002 and celebrated their 22nd anniversary in 2024. Brad, 53, transitioned from a career in real estate to property management and later worked for Capital Well Service, an oil drilling company.
Notable Quote:
"Suzanne had any fault, it's that she put everyone else ahead of herself."
— Daphne Woolsoncroft [04:30]
The Day of Disappearance: October 6, 2024
On Sunday, October 6, Suzanne and Brad attended an exclusive party at the Argyll, a members-only dinner club in Alamo Heights. Initially intending to leave their five-year-old daughter in her grandmother's care, they ultimately decided to attend the event together, bringing their daughter along. During the evening, witnesses observed a verbal altercation between Suzanne and Brad.
Around 8:30 PM, Suzanne and her daughter left the party, making a quick stop at a nearby H-E-B grocery store. Post-shopping, Suzanne made a call to a family friend at 9:15 PM and another to her mother at 9:16 PM, revealing that Brad had physically assaulted her. Shortly after, Suzanne arrived at her friend's house but the timeline becomes unclear as her phone service was suspended, likely by Brad.
Notable Quote:
"Ms. Simpson was attempting to get away from Mr. Simpson's grasp as he tried to pull her downwards."
— Neighbor's Report [11:33]
Investigation and Emerging Evidence
The investigation took a critical turn when Suzanne's 20-year-old daughter, Chandler, reported that the last known location of Suzanne was at home at 10:22 PM via the "Find My" app. However, Brad's phone was turned off at 11:00 PM, raising suspicions. Neighbors reported hearing a physical struggle and screams from the Simpson household, but no further evidence was immediately found.
Brad's suspicious behavior escalated as he failed to report Suzanne missing promptly. Instead, he only did so after pressure from friends, around 10 PM, approximately 24 hours after Suzanne was last seen. Law enforcement discovered that Brad had accessed the family's AT&T account and attempted to conceal evidence by burning electronics, including Suzanne's phone and laptop, at their Bandera property.
Notable Quote:
"If this doesn't say all you need to know, then I don't know what would."
— Heath Merryman on Brad's Notes [15:58]
Brad Simpson's Arrest and Charges
Brad Simpson was arrested on October 9, 2024, and charged with family violence and unlawful restraint based on evidence of his abusive behavior. Further forensic analysis revealed Suzanne's DNA on a motorized handsaw belonging to Brad, strengthening the case against him. Despite the absence of Suzanne's body, authorities believed Brad was responsible for her disappearance.
Brad's erratic behavior continued as he attempted to cover his tracks, purchasing heavy-duty trash bags, a cooler, disinfectant spray, insect repellent, and cement shortly after Suzanne vanished. Surveillance footage showed Brad disposing of items at a landfill, indicating a potential cover-up.
Notable Quote:
"Suzanne was attempting to get away... as he tried to pull her into their San Antonio house."
— Neighbor's Observation [11:33]
Community and Family Response
The Simpson family's ordeal sparked a strong community response. Suzanne's sister, Teresa, abandoned a trip abroad to aid in the search, expressing unwavering belief in Suzanne's innocence and Brad's culpability. Their eldest daughter, Chandler, took a stand on social media, publicly accusing her father of abuse and advocating for victims of domestic violence.
Notable Quote:
"I will make sure you remember her name. Suzanne Simpson was a victim of abuse and a victim of this community."
— Chandler Simpson [42:00]
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
As of December 2024, Brad Simpson faced multiple charges, including first-degree felony murder, evidence tampering, and possession of prohibited weapons. His business partner, James Cotter, was also implicated for assisting in the cover-up by hiding a modified AK47 rifle and lying to authorities.
Despite an exhaustive search operation involving multiple agencies, including the Texas Rangers and FBI, Suzanne's remains have yet to be found. The community continues to hold vigils and support the Simpson family, hoping for closure and justice.
The trial is scheduled for February 2025, with Brad Simpson held on a $5 million bail, facing potential life imprisonment.
Notable Quote:
"We are determined to find her. We will not stop until we find her."
— Teresa Simpson [34:48]
Conclusion
Episode 465 of Going West: True Crime presents a harrowing exploration of Suzanne Simpson's disappearance, shedding light on issues of domestic violence, the complexities of legal investigations, and the resilience of a community in seeking justice. As the trial approaches, the hope remains strong for Suzanne's family to find answers and for her legacy to drive change in addressing and preventing domestic abuse.
Call to Action
If you have any information regarding Suzanne Simpson's whereabouts, please contact the Almost Park Police Department at 210-822.
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