Murder and rape of Christine Rohrer

CHAMBERSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA, USA – NOVEMBER 3, 1998 Tragic event occurred in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, that shook the entire community. Michael Singley, a 21-year-old man suffering from depression, murdered his 23-year-old cousin Christine Jane Beckner Rohrer and her husband Travis Michael Rohrer. This crime, which involved brutal violence and sexual abuse, resulted in a tragedy that left the victims’ family and friends in shock.

Michael Singley was a young man who at the time was facing serious psychological problems, including depression. On November 3, 1998, he decided to act on these issues and planned to murder his cousin Christine, whom he saw as a suitable victim. Before committing the crime, he bought several items that he intended to use in the commission of the crime: three rolls of duct tape, ammunition for a .44 Magnum revolver, a folding hunting knife, and gloves. He expected his plan to be quick and effective.

Christine and her husband Travis had just returned home when they were confronted by Michael outside their house. After a brief period, Michael entered their home under the pretense of needing help with a car, which he supposedly needed assistance with. Once inside, he bound Christine with duct tape, raped her, and then repeatedly stabbed her in the chest, neck, and torso, causing fatal injuries.

After killing Christine, Michael turned his attention to her husband Travis. When Travis arrived home and realized that something was wrong with his wife, he went upstairs, where Michael confronted him. This encounter ended with Michael shooting and stabbing Travis, leaving him severely injured. Travis, although wounded, survived and provided crucial information about the perpetrator, which eventually led to Michael’s arrest.

After the attack on Travis, Michael left the house and fled into the neighborhood. He shot a neighbor who attempted to intervene and escaped. During his flight, he tried to cover his tracks, but his actions did not go unnoticed. Throughout the investigation, important evidence was found that ultimately led to his arrest.

Injured Travis Michael Rohrer

Michael Singley was eventually apprehended. He was charged with double murder, attempted murder, rape, burglary, and theft. A search of his home uncovered bloodstains on his clothing, a weapon, and other evidence linking him to the crime.

Travis, who survived and was able to testify, confirmed that his attacker was Michael. He described how he found his wife already dead when he came home and was attacked by Michael when he tried to help. After his survival, it became clear that Michael had planned not only to kill Christine but also Travis, possibly due to the psychological issues he was experiencing at the time.

In 2005, Michael Singley was sentenced to death. This case left a deep scar on the family and friends of the victims, who would never forget the horrific crime their loved ones experienced. The event also highlights the need for early diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues that can lead to violent actions.

The death of Christine Rohrer, a 23-year-old young woman, was an enormous tragedy for her family and friends. This case demonstrates not only the horrors that can stem from mental health issues but also the importance of family and community support in preventing such crimes.