CARLSBAD, Calif. - Last week, a Carlsbad family was preparing for Thanksgiving and a birthday. This week, they are preparing for funeral services for Kathleen Scharbarth, who was found strangled to death in a remote part of San Diego County.
On Tuesday, Kathleen Scharbarth's brother Michael and sister Melissa spoke to the media for the first time since her body was found on Friday.
"We lost Kathy, not to old age, but to murder," said Michael Scharbarth. "It's come as such a shock to all of us."
One week before her death, Scharbarth filed a restraining order against her ex-boyfriend Michael David Robles. She stated that she was scared for her life and outlined several incidents of violence, including stalking her and her daughter.
"I love my sister. I miss her dearly. She was my best friend," Melissa tearfully said.
The Scharbarth's thoughts turned to Kathleen's 13-year-old daughter Madison. They said she understands the tragedy that has befallen her mother, but insists she is strong.
"She misses her mom," Melissa Scharbarth said. "She wants to have her mother's memory carry on."
Madison opened the birthday presents destined for her 34-year-old mother the day she died.
The shock of the crime was still evident on the family's faces and in their minds. Neither sibling would talk about Robles being the murder suspect. Michael Scharbarth only acknowledged his anger at Robles and the situation he's accused of creating.
There were final words for other women who are victims of domestic violence.
"Get help immediately. If you think for once that you're in danger, think about yourself," Michael Scharbarth said.
