Crime scene photos: Karen Ermert murder
In December 1986, Karen Ermert, 19, was starting anew after breaking up with her long-time boyfriend, Mark Willey.
Karen's Ex
Mark Willey, also 19 at the time, had met Karen Ermert during high school. According to a close friend, Mark became controlling and abusive towards Karen, until she finally broke off their relationship.
It's Not Over
Unable to accept the breakup, in the earlier morning hours of December 27,1986, Mark Willey drove to Karen Ermert's apartment.
A Combustible Mix
Mark Willey was in a rage, armed with a bottle of whiskey and a .22 caliber rifle.
A Confrontation
When Mark Willey arrived around 2 a.m., he stowed the rifle outside and confronted Karen Ermert in her apartment. A heated fight ensued.
The Holidays
The argument was juxtaposed against Christmas decorations celebrating the holiday just two days earlier.
The Holidays
The argument was juxtaposed against Christmas decorations celebrating the holiday just two days earlier.
The Shootings
Mark Willey then grabbed the .22 caliber rifle, shooting Karen Ermert several times and killing her instantly.
The Shootings
After shooting and killing Karen Ermert, Mark Willey shot himself in the forehead.
A Haunting Case
Det. Tommy Lee was the first detective on the scene. He told "48 Hours" that Karen Ermert's murder still haunts him 33 years later.
Killer's Body Rushed Away
When Det.Tommy Lee arrived, Karen Ermert's lifeless body was on the floor of her apartment, but Mark Willey's was not there. He had been rushed to a nearby hospital.
A Beating Heart
Mark Willey was brain dead, but his heart hadn't stopped beating. His heart was used in the Washington, D.C.- area's first heart transplant.