Gabriella Cartagena, a 24-year-old Wisconsin woman, was found dead in a wooded area after being reported missing for six days, leaving her family and community in mourning.

The tragic case unfolded when Cartagena was reported missing after a distressing phone call. She was later found deceased on Tuesday, Feb. 10, with her boyfriend, Robert Chilcote, now in custody as a person of interest.

Cartagena was first reported missing to the Marinette Police Department after a concerning phone call to her family. During the call, she was heard pleading for her life. The department initially stated she had been located, without further details, at the time.

Unraveling a Tragic Disappearance Case

Later, at a press conference, police revealed that Cartagena’s body was discovered in a wooded area. This grim update came six days after she was reported missing, according to AOL.

Before her body was found, authorities classified her as an “involuntary missing” person. This designation hinted at potential foul play or coercion in her disappearance.

Cartagena’s family shared with WBAY that the last time they heard from her, she sounded deeply distressed over the phone. Her words during that call were chilling and heartbreaking.

Distressing Final Words Heard

“Please don’t shoot me,” Cartagena reportedly said during the call, as shared by her family. Her fear was palpable in those moments.

“I’m sorry,” she added, according to the same family account. These words have haunted those who knew her.

As the investigation progressed, police identified Robert Chilcote, Cartagena’s boyfriend, as the last person seen with her. This connection raised immediate questions about his involvement.

Boyfriend Emerges as Key Figure

Chilcote was taken into custody in Minnesota, specifically in Wright County, as confirmed by jail records. Authorities also found weapons in his car during the arrest.

While Chilcote is considered a person of interest in Cartagena’s disappearance and death, he has not been charged in connection with these events. Currently, he faces charges of fleeing a police officer and is held as a fugitive from another state.

According to WBAY, Chilcote is being held on a $100,000 bond in Minnesota. The investigation into Cartagena’s death remains ongoing as police piece together the circumstances.

Lessons to Learn from Tragedy

Cartagena’s case highlights critical safety considerations for everyone. Here are some takeaways to consider:

1. Stay connected: Regularly check in with loved ones, especially if you’re in a potentially volatile situation, and ensure someone always knows your whereabouts.

2. Trust your instincts: If you feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to seek help or remove yourself from a dangerous environment.

3. Know emergency resources: Keep local emergency numbers and trusted contacts readily accessible for immediate assistance.

Cartagena’s story is a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of such tragedies.

Why This Story Matters

This heartbreaking case resonates deeply within the Marinette community and beyond, underscoring the urgent need for awareness about personal safety and domestic relationships. As a mother to a 3-year-old daughter, as noted in a GoFundMe started by her brother, Cartagena’s loss leaves a void that extends to the youngest and most vulnerable.

It’s a call to action for communities to rally around those affected by violence, ensuring resources and support are available to prevent future tragedies.

This case, leaving behind a young daughter and a grieving family, continues to unfold as investigators seek answers in a community shaken by loss.