Natalia Barber, aged 51, was found dead on November 16, 2015, in her Palm Beach Gardens apartment. The tragic incident was discovered when police conducted a welfare check after friends and family had not heard from her or her boyfriend, James Polzin, aged 48. Upon entering the apartment, authorities found both Barber and Polzin deceased in what appeared to be a murder-suicide.
The police did not specify who the shooter was, but it was evident that the deaths were a result of violence within their relationship.
The relationship between Barber and Polzin had a history of domestic violence. In 2013, Polzin was arrested for pushing Barber to the ground and grabbing her by the neck during an argument. Barber had informed the police that Polzin's behavior became aggressive when he consumed alcohol, but she chose not to press charges at that time. Neighbors frequently heard the couple arguing, and there were instances where Barber was heard pleading for her safety.
The investigation into their deaths revealed that the couple's relationship had been tumultuous, marked by frequent disputes and instances of violence. Despite the previous arrest, there were no recent records of Polzin being detained or charged in the months leading up to the incident. The murder-suicide left Barber's family and friends in shock, as she was remembered as a friendly and pleasant individual who always had a smile for everyone.
Barber's death had a profound impact on her family, especially her daughters. Her older daughter, Liza Muravyeva Scott, temporarily took care of Barber's younger daughter, Nadya, following the incident. The community mourned the loss of Barber, and a celebration of her life was held at Loggerhead Park, where friends and family gathered to remember her infectious laugh and smile. The case highlighted the severe consequences of domestic violence and the importance of addressing such issues before they escalate to tragic outcomes.
