Brother-in-Law Stabs Sister to Death as Brother Hears Scream and Intervenes

A man in Maryland discovered his brother-in-law actively stabbing his sister to death after hearing screams at their home. The incident occurred around 6:15 a.m. on September 29, 2025, at a residence on Maplehurst Lane in Baltimore County.

According to charging documents obtained by WJLA, the victim's brother was present when he heard loud cries for help coming from inside the house. Upon investigating, he found Anthony Lechner, 55, standing over his sister Kimberly Lechner, 56, with a knife and actively stabbing her. The brother immediately called the police to report the domestic disturbance.

When Baltimore County Police arrived at the scene, they discovered Kimberly Lechner suffering from traumatic injuries that led to her death on-site. Anthony Lechner was found covered in blood with cuts on his left wrist and right thigh. He appeared confused upon interaction with law enforcement, asking what had happened and stating he had no recollection of the incident.

Anthony Lechner has since been charged with first-degree murder for Kimberly's killing. In November 2025, he entered a plea of not criminally responsible, indicating an intent to use an insanity defense at his upcoming hearing scheduled for Wednesday.

The case has also sparked concerns over potential inheritance disputes and ethical issues surrounding prison communications. Family members have raised alarm about Anthony Lechner leaving voice messages for his adult son via a prison employee's personal cellphone, suggesting that he believes "God was going to protect" him and that drugs were responsible for his actions.

Furthermore, the family is contesting the distribution of Kimberly Lechner’s estate, which is valued at over $2 million. Court filings indicate that Anthony Lechner has attempted to terminate financial support for his college-aged children and sought to relocate her disabled brother from their home.

Kimberly Lechner was a preschool teacher who found immense joy in guiding young children through early educational experiences. Her family mourns the loss of a beloved figure whose kindness and love will be remembered by all who knew her.