Crystal Marschel Identified as Victim in Tragic Murder-Suicide; Beloved Teacher Leaves Behind Two Young Children

Crystal Marschel Identified as Victim in Tragic Murder-Suicide; Beloved Teacher Leaves Behind Two Young Children

On Friday, July 18, 2025, authorities conducted a welfare check at a home in the 600 block of River Valley Road in Pierz, Morrison County, Minnesota, after Crystal Marschel and her boyfriend, John Gans, failed to appear at scheduled court hearings. They were discovered deceased inside the residenceCrystal, aged 32, and John, aged 34, were both found with gunshot wounds.

• The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Marschel’s death a homicide and Gans’s death a suicide, and a .40‑caliber handgun was recovered at the scene.

👩‍🏫 Victim: Crystal Marschel

• Crystal was a 32-year-old physical education and health teacher in Isle, Minnesota, and coached track for the Isle/Onamia schools. She taught from 2019 through 2024.

• Described by colleagues and community members as a loving mother, she leaves behind two young children, ages 3 and 5, who now face life without their mom.

👨‍💼 Individual Responsible: John Gans

• John Gans, Crystal’s 34-year-old boyfriend, had previously worked as a math teacher at Sauk Rapids–Rice Middle School. He taught there from 2013 until 2024.

• At the time of the incident, Gans was reportedly going through a divorce and had recent legal troubles, including felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from a May 2024 incident involving DUI and an alleged scuffle with law enforcement. A court had ordered him evaluated for mental illness or cognitive impairment.

💔 Context, Loss & Community Response

• The deaths are officially described as a murder–suicide, with Gans shooting Marschel before turning the weapon on himself

• A GoFundMe page was launched to support the surviving father and the children. The campaign emphasized Cristal’s devotion to her family and her positive impact as an educator

• Community members mourned her as a warm, vibrant soul who “loved fiercely,” and noted her favorite teaching phrase: “Good job!”

📋 Summary Table

🧠 Reflection & Broader Implications

• This devastating incident highlights the tragic impact of domestic violence, especially when intertwined with mental health and personal crisis.

• The loss of a young mother and dedicated teacher has resonated deeply through her community and the broader educational network.

• The case underscores the need for support systems—from mental health providers to domestic violence resources—for individuals undergoing personal and legal stress