A woman found strangled in northwest suburban Schaumburg last week was allegedly killed by a man she was dating who had a history of domestic violence, authorities said.
Kevin Motykie, 56 of Schaumburg, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the April 30 incident, which left 43-year-old Katherine Torbick dead, according to Schaumburg police.
Homicide investigation launched after Schaumburg woman found strangled, man in custody
Officers discovered Torbick through a well-being check to her and Motykie’s home at 1727 W. Weathersfield Way.
Schaumburg police responded to a 911 call expressing concern about Torbick after she hadn’t been heard from throughout the day, police said. There had been a recent domestic violence incident at the same address involving Torbick and Motykie. He had a pending arrest warrant for domestic battery to Torbick, police said.
Cook County Circuit Court records show the warrant dates back to an incident on March 12.
Seven weeks later, on the night of April 30, police forced entry to the couple’s home and discovered Torbick dead inside with multiple signs of trauma throughout her body. Motykie was found in the garage and arrested. Detectives learned that Torbick and Motykie had been dating.
The Cook County medical examiner’s office determined Torbick died of strangulation in a homicide.
A Cook County judge ordered Motykie held pending trial at a detention hearing Friday, court records show.
In the days since her death, condolences for Torbick have started to pour out online.
Algonquin-based Fox River MedSpa, where Torbick was employed, in a post to social media last weekend wrote, “We are heartbroken by the loss of our teammate and friend.”
“Our hearts are with her family, especially her son, during this unimaginable time,” the business wrote to Facebook, adding: “She mattered. She was valued. And she will always be a part of our story.”
Fox River MedSpa said it will be hosting a donation-based domestic violence course in Torbick’s name and donating the proceeds for Refuge for Women, a housing program for victims of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, per the organization’s website.
