The Tragic Betrayal: 5 Chilling Facts About The Murder Of Evansville Firefighter Robbie Doerr And His Wife's 90-Year Sentence

The tragic and deeply unsettling murder of Evansville firefighter Robert "Robbie" Doerr II remains one of the most high-profile and heartbreaking true-crime stories to emerge from Vanderburgh County, Indiana. As of December 2025, the case has reached a significant, albeit painful, conclusion for the victim's family, with the conviction and severe sentencing of his widow, Elizabeth "Becky" Fox-Doerr, for orchestrating the murder-for-hire plot. This article dives into the life of the dedicated public servant and the chilling details of the betrayal that led to his death, focusing on the latest judicial outcomes that finally brought a measure of justice to the Evansville community. Robbie Doerr was a dedicated man who spent nearly three decades in service, following in the footsteps of his father to become a respected member of the Evansville Fire Department. His sudden, violent death in 2019 sent shockwaves through the local community, which was compounded by the revelation that his own wife was behind the calculated act. The story of his life, service, and the subsequent investigation and trial is a complex narrative of dedication, deception, and the pursuit of justice.

Robert "Robbie" Doerr II: Biography and Career Profile

Robert F. "Robbie" Doerr II was a beloved figure in Evansville, known for his unwavering commitment to his community and his distinctive mustache. His life was defined by service and family, a legacy that was tragically cut short.

• Full Name: Robert F. Doerr II (Known as Robbie)
• Born: June 22, 1967, in Evansville, Indiana
• Parents: Marlene (Waelde) Doerr and Robert F. Doerr (Sr.)
• Career: Veteran Firefighter for the Evansville Fire Department (EFD)
• Years of Service: 28 years (Joined EFD in 1991)
• Affiliations: Member of the International Association of Firefighters Local 357
• Death: February 26, 2019 (Age 51)
• Cause of Death: Shot outside his home on Oakley Street, Evansville, Indiana
• Legacy: Honored posthumously by the EFD for his dedication and service.

The Night of the Murder: A Hero's Fatal Return Home

The events of February 26, 2019, unfolded on a quiet residential street in Evansville, transforming it into the scene of a brutal, premeditated crime. Robbie Doerr had just completed a grueling 12-hour shift at the Evansville Fire Department when he pulled into the driveway of his Oakley Street home. He was ambushed and shot multiple times as he exited his vehicle. The execution-style killing immediately signaled to investigators that this was not a random act of violence. The victim was a respected firefighter, a man who dedicated his life to saving others, and the nature of his death suggested a targeted attack. The Evansville Fire Department, along with the entire city, mourned the loss of a local hero, and the investigation quickly became a top priority for law enforcement.

The initial investigation focused on the possibility of a disgruntled person or a crime related to his work, but the trail soon led police down a much darker and more personal path—one that pointed directly at those closest to him.

Betrayal in Flames: Unraveling the Murder-for-Hire Plot

The shocking truth behind Robbie Doerr's death began to surface as investigators delved into his personal life. The murder was not the result of a random attack but a cold-blooded murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by his wife, Elizabeth "Becky" Fox-Doerr, and her secret lover, Larry Richmond Sr. Authorities discovered that Fox-Doerr and Richmond, who was a convicted felon, had been involved in an affair and allegedly conspired to have Robbie killed. The motive, according to prosecutors, was a combination of financial gain and the desire to be together without the obstruction of Robbie Doerr. The plan was meticulous, involving a chilling level of deception that stunned the community when the details were made public. The breakthrough in the case came from a prison informant who claimed that Larry Richmond Sr. had confessed to the killing, providing details about the murder that only the shooter would know. This pivotal testimony, along with other evidence of the couple's communication and relationship, led to the charges being filed against both Fox-Doerr and Richmond. The news that a veteran firefighter had been murdered by his own wife and her lover sent a profound sense of anguish and disbelief through the Evansville community.

The Final Verdict: Elizabeth Fox-Doerr's 90-Year Sentence

The trial of Elizabeth Fox-Doerr captivated the nation, with coverage appearing on major true-crime programs like ABC's 20/20, titled "Fire and Vice." The prosecution successfully argued that Fox-Doerr had conspired with Richmond to commit the murder. The jury found her guilty of both murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The sentencing, which took place after her conviction, delivered a definitive and severe punishment. In a powerful display of justice, Superior Court Judge Robert Pigman sentenced 52-year-old Elizabeth Fox-Doerr to a staggering 90 years in prison for her role in her husband's death. This lengthy sentence reflects the heinous nature of the crime—the ultimate betrayal of a dedicated public servant. Despite the verdict and the overwhelming evidence, Fox-Doerr maintained her innocence, stating, "I never asked anyone to murder my husband," during her sentencing hearing. The conviction and sentencing of Fox-Doerr provided the first major step toward closure for the Doerr family and the Evansville Fire Department.

Latest Updates: Larry Richmond Sr.'s Awaiting Trial

While Elizabeth Fox-Doerr is now serving her 90-year sentence, the legal proceedings for the alleged shooter, Larry Richmond Sr., are ongoing. As of the latest reports, Richmond Sr. is separately charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with Robbie Doerr's death. The complex nature of the case, involving multiple defendants and a protracted investigation, has led to a lengthy legal process. The community continues to follow the case closely, awaiting the final trial and conviction of the second conspirator to ensure that full justice is served for the fallen firefighter. The pursuit of justice for Robbie Doerr has been a rallying point for the Evansville community, solidifying his legacy as a man who gave his life in service, even as his life was taken by an act of unthinkable betrayal. Robbie Doerr’s memory is cemented in the Evansville Fire Department and the city he served for 28 years. His story stands as a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by first responders, both on and off duty, and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to community service. The finality of the 90-year sentence for his wife serves as a powerful statement against the crime of passion and conspiracy that cut short the life of a true Evansville hero.