New Photos Show Simi Valley Couple, Executed in Driveway, During Happier Times
Newly released photos capture Dr. Eric Cordes, 63, and his wife Vicki Schiller, 66, in happier times—smiling, tanned, and full of life—before their tragic deaths in broad daylight in the driveway of their $1.3 million Simi Valley home.
The beloved couple was gunned down in their garage around noon on Sunday at the quiet cul-de-sac of Hawks Bill Place. They were rushed to the hospital but succumbed to their injuries, leaving a devastated community in shock.
Possible Connection to Burned Car
Just three hours after the shooting, about 70 miles away in Chino, authorities discovered a burned car with a badly charred body inside, which has since been linked to the double murder.
Simi Valley Police Sergeant Rick Morton confirmed that the black Honda Civic found at Ayala Park was connected to the crime scene and that a gun was recovered. The identity of the man in the vehicle remains unknown.
Investigators Believe the Couple Was Targeted
Neighbors reported seeing a white man near the couple’s home shortly before the shooting, who they suspected was the couple’s stepson.
“We do believe the victims were targeted,” Morton said during a press conference on Monday.
“We don’t believe they were random victims.”
Community Remembers the Beloved Couple
The quiet residential neighborhood is grappling with the sudden loss of two well-loved members.
Vicki Schiller, a popular spin instructor who had recently become a grandmother, was remembered fondly by friends. Raul Gomez, a fellow spin instructor, shared on Facebook:
“We are in numb shock that our friend is gone. Earlier this year we were in Simi and took over her Thursday morning spin class. Vicki challenged Lanie and me to become spin instructors over 20 years ago. She and her husband Eric were senselessly shot in their driveway yesterday. Our hearts are beyond broken.”
Dr. Eric Cordes, a respected radiologist, served his community for nearly three decades. His employer, Adventist Health Simi Valley, released a statement:
“The Adventist Health Simi Valley community is heartbroken by the tragic deaths of our longtime colleague, Dr. Eric Cordes, and his wife, Vicki. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him as we grieve this shocking loss.”
Motive Still Unclear
While the investigation continues, police say there is no threat to the public, and the attack is believed to be targeted. Authorities are interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence to uncover the circumstances behind this shocking and senseless act.
