Linda Budzban, aged 55, tragically died on September 13, 2014, in Eaton, Wisconsin. Her death was the result of a domestic violence incident that escalated into a murder-suicide. Linda was born on August 25, 1959, to Dolores and the late Peter J. Budzban. She was a long-time resident of Green Bay and worked at Parkview Manor Health & Rehab Center for 30 years before her employment at Aurora Baycare Medical Center.
Linda was known for her kind-hearted nature and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.
The incident occurred late on a Saturday night when Richard Phillips, aged 58, of the Luxemburg area, shot Linda Budzban before taking his own life. The Brown County Sheriff's Department identified the victims and confirmed that the pair had been going through a long and acrimonious divorce. Phillips had been harassing Budzban for an extended period, and on the night of the incident, he lay in wait for her to return home. A witness reported hearing a woman yelling for help and saw a man on top of her with a gun. The bodies of Budzban and Phillips were found outside the residence.
The investigation revealed that Phillips had premeditated the attack, hiding in tall grass near Budzban's home with a shotgun. Budzban had been fearful for her safety for many months and often had someone accompany her when she returned home. Unfortunately, she was alone on the night of the incident. The Brown County Sheriff's Department noted that this was the first reported incident of domestic violence involving the couple.
Following the tragic event, there were no further arrests or suspects as the case was classified as a murder-suicide. The community mourned the loss of Linda Budzban, and her death highlighted the critical importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring the safety of individuals in abusive relationships.
