Who is Erika Scholtes? Arizona Toddler Hot Car Case and Husband’s Christopher Scholtes Suicide

Christopher Scholtes, an Arizona father convicted of second-degree murder for leaving his two-year-old daughter in a hot car, took his own life at home before reporting to prison, authorities confirmed. The Pima County Attorney’s Office stated that the father died in his Phoenix residence, days before his scheduled sentencing.

Who is Dr. Erika Scholtes?

Christopher Scholtes was married to Dr. Erika Scholtes, an anesthesiologist at Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona. She graduated from the University of Arizona College of Medicine in 2019 and holds a valid Arizona medical license through 2026.

The couple shared three children, including the two-year-old daughter who tragically died last year due to heat exposure inside a parked car.

Details of the Incident

On July 9, 2024, Christopher Scholtes reportedly parked his family car in Marana, Arizona, around 12:30 pm and left his toddler inside for more than three hours. The outdoor temperature at the time reached 109°F.

Christopher told police he kept the car engine running for the air conditioning, but investigators found the AC off when the toddler was discovered unresponsive. Authorities said the engine had stopped after 30 minutes, and the father had been playing video games, drinking beer, and watching adult content during that time.

Legal Proceedings

Christopher Scholtes was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. During a hearing in July 2024, Dr. Erika Scholtes asked the judge to release her husband, calling the incident a “big mistake” and describing him as an “amazing father.” She urged that releasing him would allow the family to begin grieving and bury their daughter together.

Past Allegations and Family Lawsuits

Reports revealed a troubling pattern. Text exchanges and statements from their children indicated that Christopher had a habit of leaving his daughters unattended in vehicles. Additionally, his eldest daughter from another relationship accused him of child abuse and filed a lawsuit against him and Dr. Erika Scholtes on October 28, 2025, for emotional distress.

Christopher Scholtes faced a possible 30-year prison sentence before taking his own life. His death leaves his family and community grappling with grief and unresolved questions about the tragic incident.