8 charged, 5 for murder, after body found of 24-year-old Rhode Island woman

The Central Falls Police Department, in coordination with the Pawtucket Police Department, Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General, and the Office of the State Medical Examiner, announced the arrests earlier this week of eight individuals in connection with the suspicious death of 24-year-old Erica Bader of Central Falls.

Bader’s body was discovered in a wooded area of Pawtucket on October 27, 2025.

Five of the arrested individuals have been charged with murder, while three face related charges of kidnapping, conspiracy, and failure to report a death.

The charged individuals are:

• Andrew Cornell, 28 (murder, kidnapping, conspiracy)
• Joshua Brunelle, 35 (murder, kidnapping, conspiracy)
• Elizabeth Durand, 41 (murder, kidnapping, conspiracy)
• Stephanie Bletzer, 37 (murder, kidnapping, conspiracy)
• Brittney Terpening, 34 (murder, kidnapping, conspiracy)
• Cheryl Blakely (kidnapping, conspiracy, failure to report a death)
• Joanne Miller (kidnapping, conspiracy, failure to report a death)
• Christopher Kordalewski (failure to report a death)

These arrests represent the culmination of a thorough, complex investigation conducted with urgency and professionalism by the Central Falls Police Detectives Division, members of the Pawtucket Police Department, the Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General, and the Office of the State Medical Examiner. Investigators determined that Bader’s body had been placed in Pawtucket after her death occurred elsewhere, leading to an address on Central Street in Central Falls.

All suspects were held on bail pending further proceedings. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

“What happened to Erica is absolutely heartbreaking and horrific,” said Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera. “My deepest condolences go to her family, her friends, and everyone who loved her.”

“These arrests reflect a thorough, coordinated investigation carried out with urgency by our detectives and our partners in Pawtucket,” said Col. Anthony Roberson of the Central Falls Police Department. “Our community should know that CFPD has been fully committed to this case, and we will continue working closely with the Attorney General’s Office as the prosecution moves forward.”

A JUSTICE FOR ERICA BADER Community Protest for Accountability took place after Bader’s body was found. The following statement was released at the time.

“We’re gathering to demand justice and accountability for the death of Erica Bader — a woman police knew for months was being beaten and held against her will yet failed to protect. Their inaction cost her life. We will not stay silent while those sworn to serve and protect ignore cries for help. Our community deserves answers, transparency, and change. Bring candles, signs, and your voice. Let’s stand together — peacefully, powerfully, and united — to say: No more silence. No more neglect. Justice for Erica Bader.”

Police say they conducted a well-being check in April, but did not locate her.

Bader was described by those who knew her as a sweet and innocent soul.

City officials and members of the Central Falls Police Department urge the public and media to respect the privacy of the Bader family during this difficult time.