Cleveland Realtor Killed in Monday Morning Shooting
Ex-Husband Charged with Murder as Community Mourns a "Devoted Mother and Pillar of Service"

CLEVELAND, Tenn. — A quiet Cleveland neighborhood was thrust into tragedy early Monday when 61-year-old Charlton Craig Liner allegedly shot and killed his ex-wife, Karen Liner, a beloved realtor and former nurse, inside her home. Authorities swiftly charged Liner with first-degree murder and felony murder, citing "overwhelming" evidence including a harrowing 911 call and security footage.

Key Details of the Crime

The violence unfolded around dawn, with neighbors reporting multiple gunshots at Karen Liner’s residence. Investigators later recovered a .40 caliber pistol allegedly used in the killing, provided by a witness who reported hearing Liner declare, “It’s done. I killed her.”

Critical evidence includes:

• 911 Audio: A recording captured Karen pleading, “Please stop, Craig, please stop,” moments before gunfire erupted.
• Surveillance Video: Footage shows Charlton Liner’s vehicle arriving at the home minutes before the shooting.

Police arrested Liner hours later at his Bluff Drive residence.

Court Proceedings and Charges

At a Monday arraignment, Charlton Liner pleaded not guilty to all charges. His attorney, Paula Henderson, unsuccessfully argued for bond, claiming jail confinement would impede trial preparation. Judge Clay Collins denied the request, ordering Liner held without bond until his February 10 hearing.

Prosecutors emphasized the strength of the case, citing the 911 recording, security footage, and the recovered weapon.

Karen Liner: A Legacy of Service

Karen Liner, 58, was remembered Tuesday as a dedicated caregiver and community leader:

• Healthcare to Housing: After two decades as a neonatal nurse at Bradley Memorial Hospital, she transitioned to real estate in 2020, quickly becoming a top agent at Bender Realty.
• Community Pillar: She volunteered with Women United and Rotary International, advocating for affordable housing and education.
• Family First: Loved ones described her as a “selfless mother who put her children above all else.”

Funeral Arrangements

A public memorial will be held today at Ridge Chapel of Companion Funeral & Cremation Service (2412 Georgetown Road NW). A celebration of life follows visitation, allowing the community to honor her legacy.

Investigation Continues

Authorities urge anyone with information about the shooting to contact Cleveland Police. The case remains active as forensic teams analyze evidence.

A Community in Grief

The killing has left Cleveland grappling with shock and sorrow. As legal proceedings advance, residents recall Karen Liner’s unwavering kindness. “She wasn’t just a realtor—she was the heart of this town,” said a neighbor.