Maryland Man Arrested for Murdering Ex-Wife Found with Sleeping Mask, Caught Hauling Bloody Mattress
Baltimore County, MD – In a chilling case that has gripped the local community, a Maryland man has been arrested for the alleged murder of his ex-wife, Patricia Watson-Geiger, who was discovered lying in bed with a sleeping mask still on. The accused, Karl Geiger, 65, was allegedly caught on camera disposing of a blood-stained mattress from the Baltimore County home they once shared.
Watson-Geiger, 69, was found dead in her bedroom on the morning of September 15, prompting police to investigate what appears to be a staged burglary turned fatal. The disturbing details have emerged following a probable cause statement and police interviews, shedding light on Geiger’s contradictory statements and suspicious behavior.
Disturbing Crime Scene and Initial Discovery
When authorities arrived at the residence, they found Patricia Watson-Geiger covered with blankets and sheets, wearing a sleeping mask over her eyes.
The scene inside the home appeared ransacked, with multiple dresser drawers open in both her and Geiger’s rooms, yet nothing appeared to be stolen. Jewelry boxes were left open but still contained valuable items, and the victim’s purse was dumped on the kitchen counter, with credit cards and coins scattered about.
“The crime scene has the appearance of a staged burglary with no items being identified by the defendant as being stolen,” the probable cause statement indicates.
- Watson-Geiger was found lying in bed, reportedly in the same position as when Geiger left earlier that day.
- Bedrooms of both ex-spouses had multiple drawers opened and items pulled out.
- The flat-screen television was found placed on the floor.
- Despite the disarray, no theft was reported.
Suspicious Behavior and Contradictory Statements
Geiger told local NBC affiliate WBAL on the day of the incident that he had left the home at 7 a.m. and only returned late in the evening to find Watson-Geiger dead, claiming to have called 911 immediately upon discovery. However, surveillance footage and cellphone records suggest otherwise.
- A gunshot was heard near the residence around 7:58 a.m..
- Geiger’s tow truck was captured on video leaving the house at approximately 8:15 a.m., despite his claim of having left earlier.
- Cellphone data shows Geiger was likely home until 8:15 a.m., inconsistent with his story.
The authorities highlighted that during questioning, Geiger appeared unaware of the exact location of the gunshot wound, despite allegedly admitting Patricia was shot in the head to acquaintances. His claims conflicted with witness testimonies who heard gunshots the morning of the murder.
“At no point during this investigation did anyone tell the defendant where the victim was shot,” the probable cause statement noted. “In fact, on 9/22/25, during a follow up interview with the defendant at his house, he told detectives that he still didn’t know where the victim was shot.”
Community Impact and Investigation Progress
The couple divorced in 2019 but continued to live under the same roof—an arrangement neighbors found unusual. Witnesses provided crucial information:
- One witness heard 1-2 gunshots between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. while walking their dog.
- Another discovered the news of the murder while out of town and contacted Geiger to inquire.
The peculiar circumstances surrounding the crime scene, including the staged burglary signs and Geiger’s suspicious conduct, have led police to charge him with first-degree murder. He was arrested on Wednesday, September 20, and is currently held without bond.
What This Means Going Forward
This case shines a light on the complex dynamics that can persist after divorce, especially when former spouses continue living together. The investigation continues, with law enforcement seeking to understand the full motive and timeline.
For continued updates, visit Law&Crime.
Your Thoughts and Reflections
What do you think about this tragic case and the complexities of post-divorce living arrangements? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Understanding such incidents can help raise awareness and promote safer living conditions for those in difficult personal circumstances.