Karoline Heintz, college student allegedly killed by boyfriend, remembered for "sweet, beautiful soul"
Karoline Heintz, a PennWest California soccer player who police said was killed by her boyfriend, is being remembered for her "sweet, beautiful soul."
Heintz was allegedly stabbed to death by her 18-year-old boyfriend, who told investigators that a "demon" took over and told him to injure his girlfriend, according to the criminal complaint. The 18-year-old woman was found dead inside her vehicle near the California Public Library in Washington County on Thursday morning. Heintz's boyfriend, Royce Moser, allegedly enlisted the help of his mother, Rachel Moser, to clean up and move the body.
On Friday, her family released a statement, saying what happened is "a parent's worst nightmare."
"It has been devastating for family, friends, and the whole community," the family's statement added. "Karoline was loved by all. She was a kind, smart, beautiful girl. We want justice for our "sweet" Karoline."
Other people who knew Heintz posted emotional tributes to her on Friday, with many sharing personal stories about the legacy she leaves behind.
"If the world had several Karolines it would be a much more, caring and loyal place," said Tyler Hamstra, the coach of a soccer club in Washington County that Heintz played for. "She was who we should all drive to be. A little happier, a little more positive and a lot more kind."
The soccer club itself, Victory Soccer Club, also released a statement on Friday, saying the 18-year-old was a "beautiful person, inside and out."
"We were all so proud of you, Karoline, and we always will be," the post said. "You meant so much to so many people, and the impact you made on everyone fortunate enough to know you will never be forgotten.
Pete Curtis, the coach of the California Vulcans women's soccer team, wants people to remember the freshman soccer player as a "sweet, beautiful soul" who left a positive impact on everyone.
"Words cannot describe the heartbreak we all feel at her loss," Curtis said. "She will always be in our hearts."
The community also responded by creating a memorial with flowers, stuffed animals and a sign near the library on Friday.
"The thing that really hit home with me is the fact that her boyfriend took her life," said Trysten Adams, who lives near the library. "Just 20 hours before she had passed away, she was posting about how excited she was to be on the Vulcans soccer team."
In their statement on Friday, Heintz's family requested privacy as they grieve. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Sunday at 6 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church in Peters Township. Heintz recently graduated from Peters Township High School.
