Wisconsin Man Charged with Girlfriend's Murder, Flees to Minnesota

Robert Chilcote faces $2 million cash bond after allegedly killing Gabriella Cartagena and dumping her body

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Robert Chilcote, a Wisconsin man, has been charged with the first-degree intentional homicide of his girlfriend, Gabriella Cartagena. Chilcote allegedly killed Cartagena, dumped her body in Menominee, and then fled to Minnesota, where he led police on a high-speed chase before crashing into a pole and being taken into custody.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the importance of law enforcement's ability to apprehend suspects who attempt to flee justice. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether high cash bonds are an effective deterrent for those accused of violent crimes.

The details

According to court records, Chilcote appeared via Zoom for his initial court appearance on Thursday, where a $2 million cash bond was set due to him being considered a flight risk. Chilcote has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide for the death of 24-year-old Gabriella Cartagena, who was reported missing from Marinette on February 4. Authorities allege that Chilcote killed Cartagena and dumped her body in Menominee, before fleeing to Minnesota, where he led police on a high-speed chase exceeding 100 mph before crashing into a pole and being taken into custody.

  • Cartagena was reported missing from Marinette on February 4, 2026.
  • Cartagena's body was found on February 10, 2026.
  • Chilcote's initial court appearance was on February 26, 2026, where a $2 million cash bond was set.
  • Chilcote's next court hearing, an adjourned initial appearance, is scheduled for March 5, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.

The players

Robert Chilcote

A Wisconsin man accused of killing his girlfriend, Gabriella Cartagena, and dumping her body before fleeing to Minnesota.

Gabriella Cartagena

A 24-year-old woman from Marinette, Wisconsin, who was reported missing and later found dead.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on March 5 whether to allow Chilcote out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring that suspects accused of violent crimes are held accountable, even if they attempt to flee. The high cash bond set in this case reflects the seriousness of the charges and the perceived flight risk posed by the defendant.