Gilbert PD Arrest Update | August 11, 2026

Gilbert, Ariz. - On August 8, 2026, Gilbert Police officers responded to a residence near the 1400 block of West Islandia Drive to conduct a welfare check on 55-year-old Cindy Miller after family members reported they had not heard from her for several days. Miller was located deceased inside the residence.

As part of standard protocol, Gilbert Police detectives responded and assumed the death investigation. Detectives discovered that several of Miller's personal belongings were missing. Investigative tools, including Flock Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPR), assisted detectives in identifying Miller's vehicle, allegedly in use by 52-year-old Kristopher Lauchner, during the days surrounding her death. It is further alleged that Lauchner, who was known to Miller, was prohibited by pretrial release conditions from contacting her.

During the investigation, detectives learned that Lauchner allegedly moved Miller's body from the scene of her death to her residence in Gilbert.

On August 11, 2026, Lauchner attempted to flee from detectives before being taken into custody. A handgun, which allegedly belonged to Miller, was found in his possession.

Lauchner was booked into the custody of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office on the following charges:

This case remains active as detectives continue to investigate Miller's cause and manner of death, in coordination with the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Cindy Miller's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

Charged or submitted offenses are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until pleading guilty or being found guilty.