Sarah Hauerc Obituary and Death of Sarah Hauer: A Tragic End to a Life Full of Promise

Victim: Sarah Hauer, 54 – Fatal Shooting at Woodburn Court One Tower

Published: January 12, 2025 | By Channel2 NOW Staff

A tragic incident unfolded in Binghamton late on Saturday, January 10, 2025, when Sarah Hauer, 54, a beloved figure in her community, was fatally shot in the hallway of the Woodburn Court One Tower, an 11-story high-rise apartment building located at 21 Exchange Street. The suspected assailant, Terell Heyward, 51, a former boyfriend of one of Hauer’s close friends, has been charged with second-degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of stolen property. Authorities indicate that the attack was likely the result of a confrontation between Hauer and Heyward, which culminated in the fatal shooting.

The Scene of the Crime: Woodburn Court One Tower

On the night of the tragic event, Binghamton Police responded to a report of gunfire at approximately 11:50 p.m. Upon arrival at the seventh floor of the Woodburn Court One Tower, officers discovered Sarah Hauer lying unresponsive in the hallway. Hauer had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Police initially believed that she had been a visitor or guest in the building, as she was found in close proximity to one of the apartments on that floor.

The scene quickly turned into a crime investigation, as officers cordoned off the area and began gathering evidence. Authorities later confirmed that Hauer had been a close friend of a resident on the seventh floor of the building, which made the circumstances surrounding her death even more perplexing and tragic.

The Relationship Between Sarah Hauer and Terell Heyward

Preliminary investigations by Binghamton Police suggest that Sarah Hauer was confronted and shot by Terell Heyward, a 51-year-old man with a history of involvement with one of Hauer’s friends. Heyward, it appears, was seeking out his former partner when the tragic encounter took place. Investigators believe that Hauer’s unfortunate involvement in this altercation was a direct result of her connection to the woman who had previously been in a relationship with Heyward.

The nature of the confrontation remains under investigation, but law enforcement officials have stated that Heyward and Hauer’s interaction escalated to violence when Heyward shot Hauer in the head, taking her life within moments. While the exact motives behind the shooting are still being pieced together, authorities suspect that the act of violence may have been fueled by personal grievances between Heyward and his former girlfriend, with Hauer tragically caught in the crossfire.

The Immediate Aftermath and Police Response

After the shooting, authorities were alerted to the incident and quickly responded to the scene. Officers from the Binghamton Police Department, including members of the Community Response Team, arrived on the seventh floor within minutes of receiving the emergency call. They immediately began their investigation, securing the crime scene and gathering evidence, including witness statements from residents who had heard the gunfire.

The initial police response was swift, and within hours, law enforcement officials were able to locate Terell Heyward at his residence at 24 Isbell Street, where he was apprehended. He was seen leaving his apartment, and upon his arrest, officers discovered that he was in possession of a loaded .380 caliber handgun. This weapon was later determined to be stolen, originating from the town of Union, which further complicated the charges against Heyward.

Terell Heyward’s Arrest and Criminal Charges

Terell Heyward was arrested and taken into custody shortly after the shooting. He was charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of Sarah Hauer. In addition to the murder charge, Heyward faces criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of stolen property charges. Police confirmed that the firearm used in the shooting had been reported stolen in the town of Union, adding another layer to the severity of the charges against Heyward.

Heyward was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail in the town of Dickinson, where he remains in custody. Law enforcement officials have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and they are asking the public to come forward with any information that could help provide further clarity regarding the events leading up to the fatal shooting.

The Legacy of Sarah Hauer

Sarah Hauer, 54, was known as a kind, compassionate, and loyal friend. Her sudden death has left her family, friends, and the community in mourning. Those who knew Hauer described her as someone who always put others before herself, offering support and care in any way she could. Her tragic passing has shocked the Binghamton area, as she was not only a friend to many but also a woman who cared deeply about her community.

Hauer’s loss is being deeply felt by those who loved her, and as news of her death spreads, tributes from friends and acquaintances continue to pour in. One local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, recalled Hauer as “a warm and vibrant person” who would always “help anyone who needed it.”

Sarah Hauer leaves behind a network of family and friends who will never forget the positive impact she had on their lives. As her loved ones grapple with the devastating loss, they remember her for the joy she brought into their lives and the kindness she shared with everyone she encountered.

Terell Heyward’s History and Criminal Background

Terell Heyward, the man accused of Sarah Hauer’s murder, has a lengthy history of criminal activity that dates back several years. According to sources close to the investigation, Heyward has previously been involved in legal issues, although the specifics of his criminal past are still being uncovered. The arrest of Heyward in connection to Hauer’s death adds another chapter to what appears to be a troubled and violent history.

Heyward’s actions have not only led to the untimely death of an innocent woman but have also left a community reeling from the effects of his violent outburst. Authorities have yet to determine the exact circumstances that led Heyward to target Hauer, but the fact that he was in possession of a stolen firearm and was reportedly seeking out his ex-girlfriend suggests that his motives were deeply personal and rooted in his prior relationships.

The Impact on the Community

The fatal shooting of Sarah Hauer has sent shockwaves throughout the Binghamton area, leaving residents shaken by the sudden violence that took place in their midst. Many locals have expressed disbelief that such an event could occur in what is typically considered a safe and peaceful neighborhood. The close-knit nature of the community has made Hauer’s death even more difficult to accept, as many knew her personally or were acquainted with her through mutual connections.

Community leaders have called for increased awareness and safety measures following the tragic event, with some advocating for more robust support systems for individuals who may be struggling with personal crises or relationship issues. Local residents have also rallied together to support Hauer’s family during this difficult time, organizing memorials and vigils in her honor.

The Legal Process Ahead

As the investigation into Sarah Hauer’s death continues, authorities are working diligently to gather all the evidence necessary to pursue justice for her. The Binghamton Police Department has urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. In the coming weeks, Heyward is expected to face further legal proceedings as the case moves through the judicial system.

The legal team representing Heyward will likely focus on challenging some of the evidence gathered against him, including the possession of the stolen weapon and the specifics of his actions on the night of the shooting. However, given the gravity of the charges and the testimony of witnesses, the case against Heyward is expected to be a complex and high-profile legal matter.

Remembering Sarah Hauer: A Life Cut Short

As the legal system works to bring closure to this devastating case, Sarah Hauer’s family and friends are left to pick up the pieces of their lives in the wake of her untimely death. Her life, tragically cut short by violence, will be remembered by those who loved her as one of compassion, kindness, and unwavering loyalty.

Her passing serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact that violence can have on families, friends, and communities, and it underscores the importance of addressing interpersonal conflicts in a non-violent manner. While Sarah Hauer’s death has left a void that will never be filled, her memory will continue to live on through the stories and tributes shared by those who knew her best.

As authorities work toward holding Terell Heyward accountable for his actions, the community of Binghamton remains united in its grief, and the loss of Sarah Hauer will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.