Crista Nicole Spears, a 26-year-old woman from Middletown, Ohio, tragically passed away on May 5, 2015, in Columbus, Ohio. She was born on January 25, 1989, and was the daughter of Tracy Fultz and Tammy Rosenbaum. Crista is survived by her children; Alyssa Spears, Jay Tyler Spears, Arabella Fensler, and Neal Fensler Jr.
Crista's death was the result of a shooting incident in her South Side apartment on Rosedale Drive. Neil D.
Fensler, her boyfriend, initially claimed that the shooting was accidental, stating that the shotgun fell over and discharged. However, an investigation by Columbus police, with assistance from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, revealed inconsistencies in Fensler's story. The evidence suggested that Fensler shot Crista as she lay on an air mattress with her arms raised in a defensive manner.
Fensler, who was 24 years old at the time, was arrested and later sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 18 years. The court determined that Fensler had a history of domestic-violence offenses and should never have had access to a firearm. The prosecution dismissed charges of aggravated murder, domestic violence, and illegally possessing a gun as part of a plea agreement.
The tragic incident highlighted the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of preventing individuals with a history of violence from accessing firearms. Crista's family supported the plea agreement, and several family members attended the sentencing hearing. Despite the loss, they chose not to address the court and declined to comment afterward.
Crista's death was a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and support for victims of domestic violence. Her story serves as a call to action to ensure that those at risk receive the protection and assistance they need.
