Why Did Eli Weaver Murder His Wife?
In a world where modesty, loyalty, and simplicity define daily life, the brutal murder of Barbara Weaver shattered the peaceful fabric of Apple Creek, Ohio. Her husband, Eli Weaver—secretly known online as the “Amish Stud”—was the mastermind behind a plot so unfathomable that it left the Amish and English worlds equally horrified. This article uncovers the tragic unraveling of a marriage, a double life hidden beneath plain clothes, and a chilling conspiracy that ended with bloodshed.
A Community in Shock: The Morning of the Murder
Barbara Weaver was found shot to death in her home on June 2, 2009. It wasn’t a robbery gone wrong or a random act of violence. What unfolded was a premeditated murder orchestrated by her own husband, Eli, and his secret mistress, Barbara “Barb” Raber. The shocking arrest of both individuals left the Amish community stunned and speechless.
Eli Weaver: The “Amish Stud” Living a Lie
To his neighbors, Eli was a father of five and a respected businessman who owned a hunting and fishing store. But behind his beard and broad-brimmed hat was a man leading a double life. Eli used cell phones and online dating sites—unthinkable within the strict Andy Weaver Amish sect—to lure women into secret affairs. He even proudly dubbed himself the “Amish Stud.”
The Crumbling Marriage Behind the Facade
Barbara and Eli had been married for a decade, raising five children in their close-knit religious community. To outsiders, their lives looked picturesque. However, Barbara’s letters to counselors told a different story. She wrote of loneliness, emotional neglect, and fear. “He hates me to the core,” she once lamented—words that now read like a chilling prophecy.
A Dangerous Affair: Enter Barbara Raber
Barb Raber, a married Mennonite taxi driver, met Eli while transporting Amish passengers. Their relationship quickly turned romantic—and deadly. What began as emotional support turned into something far more sinister when Eli began suggesting they kill his wife.
Plotting Death Through Texts and Google Searches
The depth of the conspiracy came to light during the investigation. Raber had performed over 840 internet searches for poisoning methods. However, the pair eventually settled on a more brutal plan: shoot Barbara with one of Eli’s hunting rifles. On the night of the murder, Eli ensured he had an alibi—he was out fishing with friends.
The Night Barbara Weaver Was Killed
While Eli was establishing his alibi, Raber entered the Weaver home and shot Barbara in her bed. Initially, she claimed the gun went off by accident. Later, she alleged she didn’t remember being there at all. The evidence, however, told a different story—one of deliberate planning and execution.
Why Didn’t Eli Just Leave Barbara?
One of the most haunting questions is why Eli didn’t simply divorce Barbara. The answer lies within the cultural and religious framework of the Amish. Leaving one’s spouse could mean complete shunning, loss of business, family, and standing. But a widower? He could retain sympathy and continue his life without disgrace.
Trial, Verdicts, and Sentencing
Barb Raber was found guilty of aggravated murder and sentenced to 23 years to life in prison. Eli Weaver, in a shocking twist, testified against her in exchange for a reduced sentence of 15 years to life for complicity to commit murder. He became eligible for parole in June 2024.
Life in Prison: Eli’s Disturbing Behavior Behind Bars
At the Grafton Correctional Institution, Eli maintained a relatively quiet profile—working as a maintenance man and cook. Yet, his attempts to reconnect with Amish women through pen-pal ads while in prison suggest an alarming lack of remorse. His own family has disowned him, and his children live in silence, shielded from the public eye.
A Legacy of Pain: What Happened to the Children?
Barbara’s children were taken in by her sister. They now live outside the spotlight, avoiding all mention of their father’s crimes. “They feel really ashamed of what happened,” said a former neighbor. The pain inflicted by Eli’s actions continues to ripple through their lives.
Community Reactions: Permanent Shunning and Outrage
Amish elders have made their stance clear—Eli Weaver is shunned for life. He will not be welcomed back into the fold, regardless of parole status. His betrayal cuts deeper than crime; it shattered the trust and values of a people rooted in forgiveness and peace.
Barbara Weaver: A Life Remembered
Barbara’s memory endures. She was the epitome of a Proverbs 31 woman—faithful, gentle, and strong. Her loss is not just personal—it’s symbolic. She is remembered not for how she died, but for how she lived: with grace, devotion, and enduring love for her children and faith.
Final Thoughts: A Sin Beyond Redemption
Eli Weaver’s actions remind us that darkness can lurk even in the most unlikely places. His manipulation and selfishness not only ended a life but devastated an entire community. The true crime world may never forget this tale—not because it was the most gruesome, but because it was the most unexpected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Eli Weaver murder his wife instead of leaving her?
To avoid shunning and maintain his reputation in the Amish community.
Who was Barb Raber?
A Mennonite woman and Eli’s lover who carried out the actual killing.
What evidence tied Eli and Barb to the murder?
Text messages, search history for poisons, and witness testimony.
Where is Eli Weaver now?
Serving 15 years to life in Grafton Correctional Institution in Ohio.
Has Eli shown remorse for his crime?
No. His prison behavior, including seeking Amish pen pals, suggests otherwise.
What happened to the Weaver children?
They are being raised by Barbara’s sister and live privately away from public view.