Neighbor Speaks Out on Caldwell Woman’s Death

The Noble County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating the death of a Caldwell woman.

Authorities say Alberta "Jane" Crawford was the victim of an assault in her Whippoorwill Apartment complex June 9th. Edgar Poland Sr. of Caldwell was arrested on assault charges unrelated to her death.

A neighbor, Kathy Casteel who knew both Crawford and Poland is speaking out on her friend’s death. She says Crawford and Poland were dating at the time of the assault.

"He was living two doors down from her but they spent most of the time in her place. And then I guess after he assaulted her he went back to his place and next thing I know I was hearing sirens out front," said Casteel.

Casteel says there had never been altercations in the past between the couple, although Crawford did not like when Poland drank and Casteel claims that night he was. After police escorted Poland to jail, Crawford locked herself in her apartment.

"I guess she was very afraid and then the police came back with a paper for her to make a statement and when she didn’t answer the door after several times, they kicked in the door and found her unresponsive," said Casteel.

Casteel says Crawford had issues with her potassium levels in the past, putting her in the hospital. She says both Crawford and Poland were easy going and friendly.

The Stark County Coroner’s office is conducting an autopsy to determine Crawford’s cause of death.