ROCHESTER — Connor Bowman, a former Mayo Clinic doctor, is facing charges of first-degree premeditated murder and second-degree murder without intent for allegedly poisoning his wife, Betty Bowman, in 2023. Bowman’s defense team, led by attorney Michael Schatz, has filed a notice indicating they will argue that Bowman is not guilty and may present alternate theories, including the possibility of an alternate perpetrator or that Betty’s death was a result of suicide.
Betty Bowman passed away on August 20, 2023, after being admitted to the hospital days earlier with severe gastrointestinal issues. Despite initial suspicions of food poisoning, her symptoms rapidly worsened, leading to cardiac issues, organ failure, and ultimately her death. Connor Bowman, who worked in poison control, suggested to doctors that his wife was suffering from a rare autoimmune disease, although testing for the condition was inconclusive.
Suspicious behavior surrounding Betty’s death led to the halting of her cremation, and further investigation revealed toxicology results showing colchicine, a drug used to treat gout, in her system—something she had no medical need for. Bowman had allegedly searched for and purchased colchicine online, as well as researched methods to hide information from police.
Further evidence pointed to possible motives, including a $500,000 life insurance policy that Bowman stood to gain. He was arrested on October 20, 2023, with a receipt for a $450,000 bank deposit found at his residence. Bowman’s trial has yet to be scheduled, but the defense’s strategy hints at a contentious courtroom battle ahead.