2 Minn. Teachers Were Found Slain. Police Say It Was Murder-Suicide, and Man Was Going Through Divorce

“We are heartbroken to share the devastating loss of Crystal, a loving young mother whose life was tragically cut short due to domestic violence. Her sudden passing has left an unfillable void in the lives of everyone who knew her,” a GoFundMe post read.

Two former Minnesota teachers who were in a relationship were found dead in what authorities are calling a murder-suicide.

The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office reported that 32-year-old Crystal Marschel was fatally shot by her boyfriend, 34-year-old John Gans, on July 18. Deputies later discovered both individuals dead at the scene. A .40 caliber handgun was recovered at the location.

Authorities were conducting a welfare check after Marschel failed to appear in court that day for a driving while impaired charge, according to the St. Cloud Times. Gans, who was in the process of divorcing his wife, was also scheduled for a court hearing on the same day, the outlet noted.

The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Marschel died from a gunshot wound to the head. Gans’ death was ruled a suicide.

Brad Bergstrom, superintendent of Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools, told the St. Cloud Times that Gans taught middle school math from 2013 to 2024, and Marschel was a physical education teacher at the same school from 2019 to 2024.

Loved ones have launched a GoFundMe page to support Marschel’s two young children, ages three and five, as well as their father.

Described as a warm, vibrant person who “loved fiercely” and prioritized her children above all else, Marschel’s family shared their grief in the fundraiser message: “We are heartbroken to share the devastating loss of Crystal, a loving young mother whose life was tragically cut short due to domestic violence. Her sudden passing has left an unfillable void in the lives of everyone who knew her.”

According to her obituary, Marschel had a passion for teaching, and her favorite phrase as a mentor was “good job.”

“Her loss will affect us all, her inspiration will never be lost, and her love for us all will never be forgotten,” the obituary reads.