Peyton Beam, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter in Ansonia, Ohio, faces charges of aggravated murder and arson in the death of Ericka Kramer, a 50-year-old woman he worked for. Authorities say Beam shot Kramer multiple times before setting her home ablaze on April 10. He responded to the fire scene as part of the firefighting crew.
The Ansonia Fire Department arrived at Kramer's home around 12:29 p.m. on April 10 after reports of a blaze. The house was engulfed in flames, and Kramer was found dead inside. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide, according to the Darke County Sheriff's Office. Prosecutors stated in court that Beam shot her twice in the back and twice in the head before dousing her body in gasoline and igniting the fire. Beam was one of the first firefighters on the scene while on duty with the department. He was arrested two days later on Sunday and charged with aggravated murder and aggravated arson. During his initial court appearance on Monday via video link, Beam shook his head as prosecutors detailed the allegations. His defense attorney described Kramer as a 'second mother' to Beam, who had done farm work at her property since his teenage years. The lawyer expressed interest in ballistics evidence and anything beyond inference. Kramer, a beloved cheerleading coach at Ansonia Public Schools, is survived by a daughter, stepchildren, and had lost her husband in 2022. A judge set Beam's bond at $5 million, requiring 10% cash or $500,000 for release. He remains in custody at the Darke County Jail.