A tragic case from Wisconsin has shocked many people. A young woman who was reported missing after a frightening phone call to her mother has now been confirmed dead. The incident has left her family heartbroken and the community deeply disturbed.
Here is everything we know so far about the case.
Gabriella Cartagena Reported Missing After Disturbing Call
According to the Marinette Police Department, 24-year-old Gabriella Cartagena was last seen by her family on February 4.
At around 7:19 p.m. that evening, her mother received a phone call that would later raise serious alarm. During the call, her family reportedly heard her say, “Please don’t shoot me, I’m sorry.”
After that terrifying moment, the call ended. Soon after, her family reported her missing. They told police they believed she was at Red Arrow Park with her boyfriend, 29-year-old Robert Chilcote.
Evidence Found at Red Arrow Park
When officers went to search the park, they discovered what they described as “possible blood and other disturbances.” This immediately increased concerns about her safety.
Local reports from WBAY confirmed that her phone’s location during the last call placed her at the park.
Police began a wider search across several Midwest states as days passed without any sign of her.
Search Across States Leads to Arrest
Authorities later located Chilcote in Minnesota. The Wright County Sheriff’s Office had been informed that he was a person of interest in a possible homicide and aggravated assault case.
When deputies spotted his red Prius, they attempted a traffic stop. At first, he pulled over. However, he refused to exit the vehicle and suddenly drove away.
This led to a 16-minute high-speed chase reaching speeds up to 100 mph.
During the chase:
- Deputies used stop sticks to slow the vehicle
- Chilcote tried to avoid them
- He drove over a median
- He hit a stop sign
Eventually, officers caught up and took him into custody.
He was arrested for fleeing a peace officer and being a fugitive wanted in another state. He is currently being held in Wright County on a $100,000 bond.
Body Found in Michigan
After further investigation, police tracked Chilcote’s movements to a wooded area in Menominee County, Michigan. On Tuesday, authorities confirmed that Cartagena’s body was found there.
During a press conference, Marinette Police Chief Jon LaCombe said investigators believe she was killed at Red Arrow Park. They suspect her body was later transported to Michigan.
Detectives also travelled to Minnesota to question Chilcote while he was in custody. However, officials have not shared details from that interview.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The Marinette County District Attorney, DeShea Morrow, announced that they have requested Chilcote’s extradition to Wisconsin. He is expected to face charges of aggravated battery, with additional charges likely pending the autopsy results.
Once transferred to the Marinette County Jail, his bail will be set at $500,000 cash. He is scheduled to appear in court on February 20.
A Family in Mourning
This tragic case has deeply affected Cartagena’s loved ones. Her family has started a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral and travel expenses. According to the campaign page, she leaves behind a 3-year-old daughter.
What began as a missing person case quickly turned into a heartbreaking homicide investigation. The final phone call, the multi-state search, and the dramatic arrest have left many in shock.
This situation reminds us how quickly life can change. A young mother who called her family in fear is now gone.
As authorities continue their investigation and legal process, her family is left to cope with unimaginable loss. The community hopes justice will be served while remembering a life that ended far too soon.
