On February 1, 2021, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office found 38-year-old Robert Blau dead at a residence along U.S. Highway 62 in Gateway, Arkansas, after responding to a welfare check. Blau, a White/Caucasian male born April 13, 1982, sustained a fatal gunshot wound to his left side just below the armpit.

Detectives developed the case quickly after a tip to the Bentonville Police Department. On February 2, 2021, 44-year-old Glen Thatcher of Bentonville turned himself in and was arrested and charged with capital murder; investigators also recovered the firearm believed to have been used. Blau’s wife, Kirsten, described him as a loving, selfless man and a devoted father to their two daughters.

Anyone who knew Robert, his family, or who has information about the case is encouraged to come forward.