"20/20" Explores Tragic Murder of Indiana Firefighter Robbie Doerr

The harrowing case of Robbie Doerr, an Indiana firefighter tragically murdered in 2019, is set to be explored in a new episode of "20/20." This exclusive coverage, airing Friday, April 10, at 9 p.m. ET on ABC and streaming the following day on Disney+ and Hulu, delves into the investigation and subsequent convictions of Doerr's wife, Elizabeth Fox Doerr, and her accomplice, Larry Richmond Sr.

The program features an emotional interview with Nathaniel Guthrie, Doerr's stepson, who reflects on the devastating impact of the murder. Guthrie's insights, along with behind-the-scenes content available on the "20/20: The After Show" podcast hosted by Deborah Roberts, provide a comprehensive look at the case.

The Tragic Night and Initial Investigation

A Family Legacy Interrupted

On February 26, 2019, Robbie Doerr, a dedicated firefighter for 28 years, was gunned down in his driveway in Evansville after completing an extra shift. Doerr followed a proud family tradition, with his father also serving in the same profession, making his death a profound shock to the community and his loved ones.

Nathaniel Guthrie vividly recalls arriving at the crime scene, describing the overwhelming presence of police officers and the immediate sense of immense loss. The tragic event left Doerr's family grappling with unimaginable grief and a desperate need for answers.

Unraveling the Conspiracy

Suspicious Behavior and Financial Motives

The investigation into Doerr's murder quickly uncovered a complex web of suspicious activities. Doerr's wife, Becky Fox-Doerr (also known as Elizabeth Fox Doerr), called 911 after hearing gunshots, but authorities soon identified inconsistencies in her account.

Investigators discovered that Fox-Doerr had deleted call records from her phone just minutes before contacting emergency services, immediately raising suspicions. Further inquiries revealed her connection to Larry Richmond Sr., her sister's fiancé, who had a history of violence and was on probation at the time, having previously served time for a prior conviction.

Authorities began to suspect that Fox-Doerr and Richmond Sr. were motivated by financial gain, specifically Doerr's life insurance benefits and pension. Fox-Doerr's actions in the days following the murder, including inquiring about her husband's pension at his firehouse, intensified these suspicions. Although Doerr's daughter was the sole beneficiary, prosecutors argued that Fox-Doerr's actions were driven by a desire for financial benefits.

The Trial and Verdict

Sentences and Lingering Questions

Ultimately, Elizabeth Fox Doerr and Larry Richmond Sr. were charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder. In 2022, both were convicted for their roles in the crime, bringing a significant sense of relief and closure to Doerr's family.

Fox-Doerr received a sentence of 90 years in prison, while Richmond Sr. was given a life sentence. Despite the convictions, Richmond Sr.'s defense attorney continues to maintain his client's innocence, and his fiancée, Mandy Fox-Fillmore, has expressed her ongoing need for his emotional support.

A Step Towards Healing

Honoring Robbie Doerr's Memory

For Robbie Doerr's family, the guilty verdicts represented a crucial step towards justice and a path to healing. Nathaniel Guthrie, who bravely testified against his mother during the trial, expressed profound relief at the outcome.

Guthrie recounted the deep impact his stepfather had on his life, highlighting the immense admiration he held for the dedicated firefighter. He stated his unwavering dedication to preserving his father's legacy, emphasizing the profound love and respect he held for his true hero, underscoring the lasting impact of crime on families and communities.