A man who was found running naked through the streets of Rome, New York has been arrested in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, a local elementary school principal.
Authorities charged Jeremy J. Kirch, 45, with second-degree murder following the death of Elizabeth A. Gerling, 50, who was discovered strangled in her bed on the morning of August 20, 2024. Gerling was the principal of Columbus Elementary School in Utica and the daughter of retired U.S. bankruptcy judge Stephen Gerling.
According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Kirch had been at Gerling’s home in the town of Marcy the night before her death. The couple was in a relationship, and Kirch reportedly made an admission during questioning that led to his arrest.
Gerling’s passing deeply affected the local school district, leaving her colleagues grieving just before the start of the new academic year. Utica City School District Superintendent Dr. Christopher Spence emphasized that she was an outstanding educator and leader, and her absence is a major loss for the community and her students.
Before the discovery of Gerling’s body, deputies had encountered Kirch acting erratically. He had appeared at a stranger’s house, claiming God had led him there. Though authorities advised Gerling to be cautious, she was found dead in her home the next day.
Hours after the murder, Kirch was seen wandering the streets of Rome naked and was taken into custody. He was later evaluated at a hospital before being arraigned in Rome City Court. He is currently being held at Oneida County Jail without bail.
The investigation into the case is ongoing. Law enforcement is seeking any information from the public about the whereabouts of Kirch’s gray 2019 Ford F350, which was towing a 2021 R-Pod camper. A firearm missing from Gerling’s home has not been recovered, and authorities are continuing their search.
Gerling’s family, friends, and students are grieving the loss of an educator remembered for her dedication to the school community. A vigil is planned in her honor as the Utica community comes to terms with her death.
Kirch’s next court appearance is scheduled for November 6, where his legal team has requested a psychiatric evaluation. The court will consider his mental state at the time of the crime.
As the school year begins, grief counselors from the Oneida County Department of Mental Health are available to support students and faculty affected by Gerling’s death.
