STRATFORD MAN HELD IN WOMAN'S DEATH
Tuesday, March 17th, 2009 -- 11:26 AM
A Stratford man suspected in the death of his live-in girlfriend made his initial appearance in Marathon County Circuit Court Monday afternoon.Authorities have charged Eric Mayer, 28, with Felony Murder ? Sexual Assault. The charge implies authorities believe Mayer did not intend to kill Cynthia Tyler, 43,but was guilty of sexually assaulting her, and that assault led to her death.
Marathon County District Attorney Jill Falstad says Mayer told authorities he became upset when Tyler interrupted him, setting off an argument. He said he ?smacked her? after Tyler began kicking at him early Saturday morning.
"He indicated she kicked at him and he became very angry about that," Falstad explains, "He hit her very hard in the head. She immediately went down and lost consciousness. As a result to the blow to her head, she has died."
Reports indicate the two shared a duplex in Stratford. The two were reportedly drinking at Marshfield area bars before the incident.
Mayer has never been accused of a violent crime, but has several drug-related convictions.
Mayer was ordered held on a $100,000 cash bond.
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