Jury finds Christophel guilty in death of Peter Holzberger

MILWAUKEE (WITI) – A jury has found Robert Christophel guilty in the death of Peter Holzberger of Glendale.

Robert Christophel

Christophel has been found guilty of one count of first degree intentional homicide as party to a crime, and one count of burglary of a building or dwelling as party to a crime.

Sentencing is set for May 23rd. Until then, Christophel remains in custody.

Investigators say 29-year-old Christophel helped kill 65-year-old Peter Holzberger in his home.

Another man, 26-year-old Nicholas Retzlaff has also been charged in the case.

Nicholas Retzlaff

Retzlaff faces one count of first degree intentional homicide as party to a crime, and one count of burglary of a building or dwelling as party to a crime, as well as a fleeing/eluding an officer as vehicle operator charge.

Both Christophel and Retzlaff pleaded not guilty in the case. Retzlaff is set to stand trial in the case as well.

Prosecutors say the duo went to Holzberger’s home on November 5th, 2013 with the intention of robbing him. According to a criminal complaint, Christophel found Herzberger outside, choked him and broke his neck.

Investigators say the suspects then moved Holzberger inside his home, wrapping bungee cords around his neck. After he died, the two allegedly hid the man’s body in his basement.

Peter Holzberger

Holzberger’s close friend, Sally Stern, asked police to do a wellness check after not hearing from the man for several days.

Authorities say Christophel and Retzlaff stole numerous items from Holzberger’s home over several days after killing him. The two also admitted to using the deceased man’s debit card.

Friends describe Holzberger as a “nice, caring person” with a passion for environmental causes.