A 20-year-old man in Indiana has pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated battery and murder in connection with the death of his mother, a university administrator who served him an eviction notice two days before her death.
Conner Kobold, 20, was arrested after calling 911 and telling police that he had killed someone at the home he shared with his mother, Shanelle Burns. When officers arrived, they found Burns unconscious and not breathing. She died in the hospital two days later from injuries consistent with manual strangulation.
According to court documents, Burns had filed an eviction notice against her son on February 5th, requiring him to clean his room, help her clean the common areas of their home, and find a job within 30 days. Kobold's LinkedIn page indicates that he began studying at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 2022.
Chicago Administrator Strangled by Son After Eviction Notice
Burns was an assistant vice president in advancement at Loyola University in Chicago. Colleagues described her as witty, kind, and poised, and said she was a trusted advisor and mentor. She enjoyed playing classical piano and writing poetry and stories.
Kobold had allegedly told his mother that he would move out, but he did not follow through. On the day of the murder, Kobold called 911 five times before police arrived. He asked the responding officer to handcuff him and put him in the back of their squad car.
Chicago Administrator Strangled by Son After Eviction Notice
Kobold had superficial scratches on his face and told police that he "killed somebody in that house." Inside the house, officers found Burns with severe injuries and lack of vital signs. She was pronounced dead at the hospital on February 7th.
Before her death, doctors told police that Burns had suffered "substantial" brain damage. The coroner ruled her death a homicide by asphyxiation secondary to manual strangulation. Kobold has pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated battery and murder and is scheduled to appear in court in August.
Chicago Administrator Strangled by Son After Eviction Notice
Kobold had initially filed a waiver to represent himself, but he was later appointed a public defender. He is currently being held at Porter County Jail without bond.
The motive for the murder is still under investigation. However, it is believed that the eviction notice may have been a contributing factor. Burns had been trying to help her son get his life together, but he may have resented her efforts to set boundaries.
Chicago Administrator Strangled by Son After Eviction Notice
The case has shocked the local community and raised concerns about the prevalence of domestic violence. Experts say that it is important for victims to seek help early on, and that there are resources available to help them break free from abusive relationships.
The loss of Burns has been deeply felt by her family, friends, and colleagues. Her creative and organizational abilities were greatly valued, and she will be remembered as a kind and caring person.
