Police in Illinois say a disgruntled father-in-law killed his daughter-in-law in a horrific shooting outside of a wedding reception. Roland Schmidt, 76, allegedly shot 45-year-old Christine Moyer in the parking lot of a Marriott hotel outside a wedding reception. Tragically, it appears Schmidt intentionally killed Moyer because she intended to divorce his son.
According to a release from the Schaumburg Police Department, Schmidt and Moyer both attended a wedding at the hotel on July 25, 2025. Around 10:15 p.m. Moyer left the reception, and Schmidt reportedly followed her to the parking lot. He allegedly shot the woman in the head execution style. When police arrived, they attempted life-saving measures before emergency personnel took Moyer to the hospital. She died a short time later.
A witness reportedly held Schmidt on the ground until police arrived.
“Through the investigation, it was discovered, Schmidt was upset with Moyer over divorce paperwork which was filed against his son,” the release explains.
Many people condemned Schmidt’s alleged actions on the Village of Schaumburg, Illinois Government’s Facebook post.
“So sad. This man has no idea how much he has now escalated his son’s situation and if they had children how this will affect them,” someone wrote. “This is not how the happy couple want to remember their reception. They and the guests will be scarred for life.”
“I bet the husband put his father up to it. Now he gets the kids and the old man goes to prison. Just a thought,” another person speculated.
“The couple getting married and everyone there has been traumatized … and the special day ruined,” one comment reads. “Prayers for them all — and the children of the murdered woman.”
Prosecutors charged Schmidt with first-degree murder. He appeared in court on July 28, according to NBC Chicago. The defense argued that because of his age and his inability to walk without a cane, the court should release him from jail. The judge denied the request and ordered Schmidt remain behind bars. He’s due back in court on August 22.
