Christian “Chris” Camilo Schauer, a 20-year-old from Marshfield, Wisconsin, tragically died on December 29, 2020. Chris was born on July 30, 2000, in Florencia, Colombia, and was adopted by Connie and Neil Schauer in 2003. He was known for his infectious smile, love for skateboarding, and a great sense of humor. Chris was attending Marshfield Alternative High School and had plans to pursue a career in welding after graduation.
The circumstances surrounding Chris's death were grim. His body was discovered by a fur trapper in a rural area of Spencer, Wisconsin, on December 29, 2020. An autopsy revealed that Chris died from multiple gunshot wounds. The investigation into his death revealed a complex and disturbing plot. It was determined that Chris was the victim of a murder-for-hire scheme orchestrated by Steven A. Crandall, a 24-year-old from Wisconsin Rapids. Crandall allegedly paid three individuals $5,000 to kill Chris, believing that Chris had stolen money and drugs from one of his dealers.
Several individuals were implicated in the crime. Jared R. Carl, a 20-year-old from Eau Pleine, confessed to shooting Chris multiple times. He claimed that he was instructed by Crandall to carry out the murder. Audrey R. Benson, a 21-year-old from Marshfield and a close friend of Chris, was also involved. She initially denied knowledge of the murder but later admitted to being present during the incident. Jared's father, Shawn R. Carl, was accused of helping to cover up the crime by hiding Chris's car and assisting in disposing of evidence.
The legal proceedings following Chris's death were extensive. Jared Carl pleaded guilty to first-degree intentional homicide and was awaiting sentencing. Audrey Benson faced charges of first-degree intentional homicide as a party to the crime, hiding a corpse, and resisting or obstructing an officer. Steven Crandall was charged with first-degree intentional homicide as a party to the crime and was awaiting trial. The case highlighted the tragic consequences of criminal activities and the devastating impact on the victim's family and community.
