A Rome, New York resident was apprehended by authorities after he was spotted running naked through the city. The man is suspected of murdering his girlfriend, a well-respected elementary school principal.
The suspect, Jeremy J. Kirch, 45, stands accused of second-degree murder in connection to the death of Elizabeth A. Gerling, 50. Gerling’s lifeless body was found strangled in her bed on the morning of August 20, 2024. She was the principal of Columbus Elementary School in Utica, New York and the daughter of retired U.S. bankruptcy judge Stephen Gerling.
According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Kirch was at Gerling’s residence in Marcy, a town outside Rome, on the night preceding her death. The two were in a relationship, and during questioning, Kirch made a statement that resulted in his arrest.
Gerling’s sudden death has left a profound impact on the local school district, with staff mourning her loss at the onset of the new school year. Utica City School District Superintendent Dr. Christopher Spence noted her extraordinary contributions as an educator and leader, emphasizing that her loss is deeply felt by the community and her pupils.
The day before the incident, deputies encountered Kirch in a disturbed state. He had shown up at a stranger’s house, asserting that he was led there by God. Despite advising Gerling to exercise caution, she was found dead in her home the next day.
In the hours following the murder, Kirch was found roaming the streets of Rome, New York naked and was subsequently detained. He was later taken to a hospital for examination before being arraigned in Rome City Court. Kirch is currently held without bail at the Oneida County Jail.
The investigation continues as law enforcement seeks information from the public regarding the whereabouts of Kirch’s gray 2019 Ford F350, which was pulling a 2021 R-Pod camper. A firearm missing from Gerling’s residence has yet to be found, and investigations are ongoing.
The passing of Gerling has left her family, including one son, friends, and students mourning a dedicated educator. A vigil is being organized in her memory as the Utica community grapples with her untimely death.
Kirch is due for his next court appearance on November 6, where his counsel has sought a psychiatric evaluation. The court will deliberate on his mental condition at the time of the alleged crime.
As the school year begins, grief counselors from the Oneida County Department of Mental Health are available to provide support to students and faculty distressed by Gerling’s death.
