Isabella Mehner- The Horrifying Murder Of An Old Woman

A chilling crime unfolded in the quiet town of Stamford, Connecticut, leaving behind a shattered community and a family grappling with the devastating loss of Isabella Mehner, a 93-year-old woman.

Isabella Mehner’s tragic murder during a home invasion on September 25, 2019, sent shockwaves throughout the town. 

The sentencing of Robert Simmons, the man responsible for this brutal crime, has finally brought closure and an air of satisfaction to the grieving family and the community. 

Although Isabella Mehner’s family may find some comfort in the sentence, their suffering and loss will continue. Their hearts will always carry the memories of the individual taken from them in such a horrible way.

Isabella Mehner’s story serves as a reminder of the value of creating a secure environment where everyone can live without fear and with the assurance that justice will be served in the wake of such horrible murders.

Now, let’s delve into the details surrounding Isabella Mehner’s case, the impact on her loved ones, and the pursuit of justice.

What happened to Isabella Mehner? 

On an unfortunate Wednesday evening, September 25, 2019, Isabella Mehner, a 93-year-old resident of Stamford, was found dead in her own home at the bottom of the basement stairs. 

Her daughter, Ellen Blanchard, discovered her lifeless body, leaving her devastated and grappling with the painful image of her mother’s final moments. 

After being unable to reach her mother on the phone, she went to her house on Cove Road in Stamford, Connecticut.

According to court documents, the woman suffered severe injuries, mostly to her head, and it was determined that a blunt-force item was to blame.

The heinous nature of the crime shook the community, leaving a lasting impact on the residents of Stamford.

The Investigation and Evidence

Law enforcement swiftly launched an investigation into Isabella Mehner’s murder. Surveillance cameras captured Robert Simmons entering the home around 5:39 p.m., leaving Mehner’s residence within just eight minutes, making him a prime suspect. 

Less than 48 hours after the murder, police found the suspect in downtown Stamford wearing the same attire they had identified from the area’s video surveillance. 

After an investigation, it was discovered that the suspect, Simmons, had previously known the woman and had visited her house to fix a drain. 

Moreover, forensic analysis revealed damning evidence, including Mehner’s blood on Simmons’ pants and his DNA found under her fingernails. 

However, the missing wedding and engagement rings and cash from Mehner’s wallet indicated a motive beyond a simple burglary.

Simmons’ Defense and Sentencing

During the trial, Robert Simmons’ defense attorney, Kevin Black, argued desperately for his client’s innocence and filed a motion for release or a new trial. 

However, Judge Gary White denied the proposal, considering the overwhelming evidence against Simmons. 

Black attempted to present Simmons’ troubled history, including his substance abuse issues and bipolar disorder, as mitigating factors. 

Nevertheless, Assistant State’s Attorney Elizabeth Moran argued for the maximum penalty, highlighting the deplorable nature of the crime.

Impact Statements from the Family

Isabella Mehner’s family members had the opportunity to share their impact statements before Simmons’ sentencing. 

Ellen Blanchard, Mehner’s daughter, recounted the traumatic discovery of her mother’s battered body and expressed her grief over the loss of a loving and supportive figure in her life. 

The impact of Mehner’s murder rippled through the family, with Maryanne Crane writing a poignant letter lamenting the vicious manner in which her sister was taken. 

Kathy Mehner, Isabella’s daughter-in-law, passionately expressed her desire for Simmons to experience the same brutality he inflicted upon Mehner.

Sentencing and Reflections

A jury in Stamford Superior Court found 54-year-old Simmons guilty of murder, burglary, home invasion, and felony murder in February.

In a significant court ruling on May 22, Robert Simmons received an 85-year maximum prison sentence for the horrific murder of Isabella Mehner. 

The sentencing was delivered by Judge Gary White, who imposed a life sentence under the state statute for Simmons’ conviction of murder in the bludgeoning death of Mehner, which occurred on September 25, 2019.

In addition to the life sentence, Judge White also handed down a 60-year sentence, equivalent to a life sentence, specifically for the murder conviction. 

However, Simmons will begin serving this sentence after completing a 25-year prison term for his convictions on charges of home invasion and first-degree burglary related to the case. 

The judge did not mince words, describing the killing as an act of brutality, heinousness, and complete injustice.

Prosecutors presented compelling evidence during the trial, including the autopsy results conducted the day after the murder. 

The medical examiner concluded that Isabella Mehner’s death inside her Stamford home was unquestionably a result of homicide. This confirmation further strengthened the prosecution’s case against Robert Simmons.

It is expected that the culprit will be incarcerated for a lifetime.