Jeremy Goodale and Willard Miller.

Nohema Graber

Two teenagers are being held on $1,000,000 bond for the murder of a Fairfield high school Spanish teacher this week.

The Jefferson County Attorney’s Office announced Thursday that 66-year-old Nohema Graber was found deceased in Chautauqua Park in Fairfield Wednesday, after she was reported missing hours earlier. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation conducted a preliminary investigation into the circumstances surrounding Graber’s death, which appeared to be a homicide. Sixteen-year-olds Willard Noble Chaiden Miller and Jeremy Everett Goodale have been charged with first-degree murder, a class A felony, and conspiracy to commit a forcible felony, a class C felony.

The Fairfield School District has cancelled all classes Friday. The high school building is open for staff and students who want to meet with school counselors, Area Education Agency Crisis Response Team, and pastor relations. Fairfield Superintendent Laurie Noll announced Thursday that the district is saddened by the tragic death of the longtime teacher. In Graber’s nine years with the high school she touched the lives of many students, parents, and staff. Noll adds that the district extends their deepest condolences to Graber’s family, friends, and loved ones. At this time their students’ and staffs’ well being is their top priority, and as a community they will remain united in this time of tragedy.

The Fairfield police and fire departments, Iowa State Patrol, Jefferson County emergency management, sheriff’s office, and the attorney’s office assisted DCI with the investigation, which remains ongoing. Law enforcement thanks the public for their tips and concern following the announcement of Graber’s disappearance, and they do not believe there is an ongoing risk to the public. Questions should be addressed to the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office. KCII will bring you more information as it becomes official.