VALPARAISO, IN – An Indiana mother’s attempt to evict her son ended in tragedy when she was allegedly strangled to death by the 19-year-old, local authorities report. The incident occurred in Valparaiso, where Shanelle Burns, an employee of Loyola University Chicago, served an eviction notice to her son, Conner Kobold.

The notice, which demanded Kobold secure employment, tidy his room, and contribute to cleaning shared spaces within a 30-day timeframe, was filed on February 5, per the local court records. On that same day, Valparaiso police received a distressing call leading them to Burns, critically injured and unresponsive in her home. She succumbed to her injuries two days later, with forensic analysis indicating the cause of death as strangulation.

Burns was an esteemed staff member at Loyola University, serving as the assistant vice president in advancement. Her abrupt death has wrought profound sorrow within the university community and beyond. Colleague Karen Paciero spoke highly of Burns’ wit, kindness, strategic thinking, and, ultimately, the deep loss felt by her passing. Additionally, her obituary highlighted her Indiana roots, artistic talents, and love for travel.

Kobold, who has pleaded not guilty, faces charges of murder and aggravated battery. Despite filing a waiver to represent himself in February, he was later appointed a public defender, as stated by an online court docket. His connection to the United States Merchant Marine Academy began in 2022, indicated by his LinkedIn profile, an educational journey abruptly interrupted by his arrest.

As Kobold’s trial approaches, scheduled for August, he remains in custody at the Porter County Jail.