In a tragic case that has captured national attention, the body of 30-year-old Emily Lampert, an elementary school teacher from Bedford, Texas, was discovered in a remote area of Carlsbad, New Mexico, following a weekend visit to see her boyfriend, Robert Early. Lampert had traveled approximately eight hours to spend time with Early, who was working on an oil rig in the region. However, the weekend took a devastating turn when she went missing after a night out on March 2, 2014.
The series of events leading to her disappearance began on the evening of March 1, when Lampert and Early were seen enjoying a night at the Stevens Inn bar. Friends and family reported that the couple appeared happy initially, but tensions escalated later in the night. Early claimed they had an argument at the bar, after which Lampert left, reportedly upset. Witnesses noted that she was intoxicated and dressed in a revealing outfit, making her vulnerable as she exited the bar alone.
Early’s initial response to Lampert’s disappearance was to contact her family, expressing concern when he realized she had not returned to the hotel room. He made a 911 call reporting her missing, stating that all her belongings, including her phone and car, were left behind. Local detectives were called to the scene but initially found little evidence to suggest foul play.
As the investigation progressed, detectives scrutinized Early’s account of the events. Surveillance footage from the hotel showed Lampert leaving the bar around 11:30 p.m., appearing agitated. Shortly afterward, Early was observed on camera, indicating he had left the bar as well. The timeline of their movements raised suspicions, particularly after Early failed a polygraph test regarding his knowledge of Lampert’s whereabouts.
Police efforts intensified as they searched for Lampert, but it was not until March 5 that her body was discovered in a field, having suffered severe trauma. Autopsy results revealed she had sustained blunt force injuries, and ligature marks were found around her neck, suggesting a violent struggle had occurred. The evidence pointed towards a homicide, prompting detectives to focus on Early.
During further interrogation, Early’s story began to unravel. Initially claiming he had no idea what had happened to Lampert, he eventually confessed to an altercation that escalated into violence. He admitted to kicking Lampert multiple times and later dragging her body to the location where it was found. His narrative shifted from being a concerned boyfriend to that of a man who had committed a heinous crime fueled by alcohol and rage.
Robert Early was charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping, and tampering with evidence. After a trial that lasted three weeks, he was found guilty on all counts and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The verdict brought a semblance of closure to Lampert’s family, who have since taken on the responsibility of raising her two young children.
Emily Lampert is remembered by her family and friends as a vibrant individual and a dedicated mother who loved her children dearly. Her untimely death has left a profound impact on those who knew her, serving as a stark reminder of the tragic outcomes that can arise from domestic violence and substance abuse.