The Breakthrough Ending Explained: Revealing the Identity of the Killer

Warning: Spoilers for The Breakthrough ahead.

The Breakthrough, a gripping Netflix miniseries, begins with the harrowing double murder of Adnan Abbas and Gunilla Persson and concludes with the capture of their killer. Loosely based on the real-life accounts documented by Anna Bodin and genealogist Peter Sjölund, this series dramatizes one of Sweden’s most extensive murder investigations, which took place in 2004 in Linköping.

Directed by Lisa Siwe, the miniseries presents an engaging portrayal of the investigation led by Detective John Sundin, portrayed by Peter Eggers. Over the course of its four episodes, the narrative explores the relentless pursuit of justice for Adnan and Gunilla, as the initial investigation hits a series of frustrating dead ends. The tide turns when Detective Sundin enlists the expertise of Per Skogkvist, a genealogist who employs DNA analysis to construct a family tree that leads to the identification of the murderer.

Who Killed Adnan Abbas and Gunilla Persson in The Breakthrough

The Gruesome Murders of Adnan and Gunilla: David Nilsson Exposed

David Nilsson looking sinister in The Breakthrough

In a tragic turn of events, seven-year-old Adnan was fatally attacked while heading to school. Gunilla Persson, who witnessed this brutal act, bravely attempted to intervene but was also attacked and later succumbed to her injuries in the hospital. The police initially felt optimistic about solving the case, bolstered by the presence of a witness who observed the crime unfold. Sadly, it took an agonizing 16 years for justice to prevail and for the murderer to be apprehended.

Despite a seemingly straightforward crime scene, the initial investigation yielded limited clues. Fortunately, the murder weapon—a knife—was discovered at the scene, providing a crucial DNA sample. However, the police faced considerable challenges as they struggled to find a match within their dwindling database. It was not until genealogical methods were employed that the identity of the killer was unveiled: David Nilsson, a troubled young man, perpetrated the heinous murders.

How the Police Caught the Killer in The Breakthrough

The Long Hunt for Justice: Catching the Killer 16 Years Later

Initially, investigators were hopeful about swiftly solving Gunilla and Adnan’s case, armed with the murder weapon and an eyewitness account. However, the investigation soon stalled as the DNA collected failed to yield any matches, despite extensive efforts that included swabbing thousands of young men in the vicinity at the time of the murders. The police developed a psychological profile of the likely suspect—a man between the ages of 15 and 30 exhibiting violent behavior—but leads were scarce, and despite producing a sketch based on Karin’s recollections, the identity of the murderer remained elusive.

Sixteen years passed with no new developments until Detective John Sundin stumbled upon a genealogy website. This discovery prompted him to reach out to Per Skogkvist, a genealogy expert who believed he could solve the case by constructing a family tree using the available DNA evidence. While Per made initial progress, he faced difficulties linking existing DNA samples to potential suspects. The case took a significant turn when a swab from Stina Eriksson revealed her relationship as a cousin to David Nilsson.

The Motivations Behind David Nilsson’s Crimes

Loneliness and Violence: Understanding David Nilsson

David Nilsson looking sad in The Breakthrough

After identifying David as the murderer, police brought him in for questioning where his DNA matched perfectly with that found on the murder weapon. In his confession, David articulated his disturbing reasoning: to quiet his mind and attain a sense of peace, he believed he needed to kill two people. The series poignantly illustrates an opening scene in which David expresses on his computer that he “must kill,”ultimately leading him to commit the egregious murders of Adnan and Gunilla.

David’s isolation and minimal interaction with the outside world—including only sporadic correspondence with his brother—paint a portrait of a deeply troubled individual. His assertion that his motive was driven by a desperate need for peace provides a chilling context for his actions. Given his acknowledgment of guilt, David was subsequently convicted.

The Fate of Detective John Sundin in The Breakthrough

Detective Stundin: Reconnecting with Family

Peter Eggers as John Sundin in The Breakthrough

During the years of the investigation, Detective Sundin was preoccupied with his professional obligations, almost at the expense of his family. At the time of the murders, his wife was pregnant, which further diverted his focus from home. Resolute in his promise to the families of Adnan and Gunilla, Sundin dedicated himself to solving the case, but once justice was served, he faced uncertainty about his future without the singular purpose that had consumed his life.

Recognizing the disconnect with his son Henry, Sundin resolved to invest time in rebuilding their relationship. The series finale depicts a poignant moment where he seeks to engage with Henry, suggesting a diving trip as a way to bond and reconnect. This transition marks a fundamental change in his life’s priorities.

The Significance of The Breakthrough’s Ending

Justice Prevails: Closure After Years of Pain

Ultimately, while it took years to apprehend the murderer, the families of Adnan and Gunilla were afforded a measure of peace with the resolution of the case. The miniseries’ finale symbolizes triumph for Detective John, who transitions from a relentless pursuit of justice to embracing a life enriched by personal connections. This evolution reflects the complexities of trauma, perseverance, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unspeakable loss.

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