Christophel, Retzlaff to stand trial in murder of Peter Holzberger

MILWAUKEE CO. (WITI) -- 28-year-old Robert Christophel of Milwaukee and 25-year-old Nicholas Retzlaff of Bayside appeared in court on Monday afternoon, November 25th for a preliminary hearing. The two have been charged in connection with the murder of 65-year-old Peter Holzberger of Glendale.

Christophel and Retzlaff on Monday pleaded not guilty in the case. The judge ruled the two will stand trial.

Prosecutors say the duo went to Holzberger’s home on November 5th 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.

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