Domestic violence in the US is a staggering problem. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men have experienced severe physical violence in their lifetime from an “intimate partner.”
Sadly, it has claimed another victim, but this time, it was fatal. A Minnesota community is in mourning after 32-year-old teacher Crystal Marschel was shot and killed by her boyfriend, Jon Gans, on July 18, 2025, before he turned the gun on himself. Brad Bergstrom, the Sauk Rapids-Rice Superintendent, told the St. Cloud Times the couple both worked at a middle school together until 2024. Gans reportedly taught math from 2013 to 2024 while Marschel taught physical education from 2019 to 2024.
Authorities went to the home in the city of Pierz for a welfare check after Marschel didn’t show up for a court date for a driving while impaired charge, the outlet reported. Gans, who was going through a divorce, was also due to arrive in court on the same day. Deputies found a .40 caliber handgun at the scene.
A GoFundMe was set up to help Marschel’s two children, ages 3 and 5, and their father, Austen, with expenses.
“Crystal was a warm, vibrant soul,” the GoFundMe’s organizers wrote. “She loved fiercely, laughed freely, and put her children at the center of her world. She dreamed of watching them grow, learn, and thrive. That dream has been stolen, and now Austen is left to pick up the pieces, grieving while stepping into the role of a single parent.”
So far they have raised nearly $15K of their $20K goal.
Her obituary stated that she had a true passion for education.
“She loved life, especially the freedom of the outdoors,” it said. “Camping, fishing, and golfing provided the joy in her voice and the sparkle in her eyes. As an educator, she hoped to share these same passions with her students, as well as with her young children.”
If you or someone you know has been the victim of domestic abuse, you can find help and support at DVIS.org, the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or by contacting your local women’s shelter domesticshelters.org.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
