Utica, NY – The community is reeling after the arrest of Jeremy Kirsch, 45, of Camden, who has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Elizabeth Gerling, 50, a respected elementary school principal in Utica. Gerling, who served as the principal of Columbus Elementary School, was found deceased in her Marcy home on Tuesday, August 20, 2024.
The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call at approximately 10 a.m. at Gerling’s residence on Birch Circle. Upon their arrival, deputies discovered Gerling dead in her bed under suspicious circumstances. Her body was subsequently sent to the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office, where an autopsy confirmed that she had died from asphyxia due to strangulation, ruling her death a homicide.
Authorities quickly focused their investigation on Kirsch, who had been at Gerling’s residence the night before her death. An extensive search ensued, culminating in Kirsch’s apprehension by Rome Police. He was taken to Rome Memorial Hospital for evaluation before being transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building for further questioning. On Wednesday, August 21, following discussions with law enforcement, Kirsch was formally charged with second-degree murder.
Kirsch was arraigned in Rome City Court on Thursday morning and is currently being held without bail at the Oneida County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing, with the Sheriff’s Office seeking public assistance. They have specifically asked anyone who may have seen a gray 2019 Ford F350 towing a 2021 R-Pod camper between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. on August 20 to contact them.
The tragic death of Elizabeth Gerling has left a deep void in the Utica community. Gerling was widely respected as an educator and was beloved by her students, colleagues, and the wider community. Her loss is profoundly felt as friends and family grapple with the senseless act that took her life.
On social media, many expressed their shock and sorrow. "She was a beacon of light for so many," wrote one commenter. Another post read, "Elizabeth’s dedication to her students and school was unparalleled. We are heartbroken."
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a woman who dedicated her life to education and the betterment of her students.