Erica Ann Wilson, aged 38, tragically passed away on July 30, 2009, in Circle Pines, Minnesota. Erica had recently left her partner of 25 years, James Harold Schwartzbauer, and moved into a new apartment on July 23, 2009. She had not informed Schwartzbauer of her new location and left behind her cell phone. However, Schwartzbauer managed to track her down less than a week later.
Neighbors reported hearing the couple arguing on the evening of July 29.
James Harold Schwartzbauer, aged 45, was identified as the primary suspect in Erica's death. According to police reports, Schwartzbauer had been trying to reconcile with Erica for the past year, but she had decided to end their relationship permanently. On the night of July 29, 2009, Schwartzbauer confronted Erica at her new apartment. The confrontation escalated, and Schwartzbauer fatally injured Erica before taking his own life.
No arrests were made in connection with Erica's death, as the suspect, James Harold Schwartzbauer, died by suicide shortly after the incident. The case was closed following the confirmation of Schwartzbauer's involvement and subsequent death.
