The Case of Becky Friedli

Becky Friedli, 28, was murdered in 2009 alongside her mother and her mother’s boyfriend in a rural New Mexico home. The case revealed a targeted attack by her ex-boyfriend Robert Pape, who was later convicted.

Becky Friedli was a 28-year-old woman murdered on June 16, 2009, in Rowe, New Mexico. Also killed were her mother, Carmen Friedli, and her mother’s boyfriend, David “Dave” Wilkinson. The three were found inside their home after a fire had been deliberately set to conceal the crime. Investigators determined that Becky’s ex-boyfriend, Robert Pape, carried out the attack. Evidence revealed a targeted and violent crime, with all three victims shot before the house was set on fire. The case drew attention due to its brutality and the calculated attempt to destroy evidence.

The crime scene was a burned residence in a rural area near Rowe. Fire investigators confirmed the blaze was intentionally set after the murders. Inside the home, evidence showed that all three victims had been shot. The fire caused significant damage, complicating forensic recovery but not preventing investigators from identifying key evidence.

Robert Pape quickly became a suspect due to his past relationship with Becky Friedli and documented history of threats. Investigators gathered forensic evidence, witness testimony, and records linking him to the scene. The case took years to reach trial, but prosecutors built a strong case demonstrating premeditation and intent. Pape was ultimately convicted for the murders.

Robert Pape was convicted of the murders of Becky Friedli, Carmen Friedli, and David Wilkinson and sentenced to life in prison.

The case is often cited as a domestic violence-related triple homicide involving a calculated attempt to destroy evidence through arson.