Barry Schmalbach’s sister speaks out for the first time

Reporter: Emma Heaton Writer: Emma Heaton
Published: Updated:
Barry Schmalbach (right) and sister Sherry (left) as kids.

For the first time, Barry Schmalbach’s sister, Sherry has spoken with only WINK News about her brother’s mysterious disappearance and the emotional toll it has taken on his loved ones. 

“I love you so much. I’m so heartbroken that this happened to you. I’m so sorry, and I miss you. I would just hug him so hard,” said Sherry.

Sherry shared memories of Schmalbach’s life and described him as determined, charming and loving. 

“He was a goofy kid. He loved being the center of attention, you know? Because he was the baby, you know, and he was so cute,” Sherry reminisced.

Schmalbach, a 56-year-old Cape Coral man, went missing on July 19, after an argument with his live-in boyfriend, Christopher Davis, at Cruiser’s Lounge. 

Davis’ arrest came after months of investigation by the Cape Coral Police Department, which involved collecting physical and digital forensic evidence and obtaining witness statements. 

On Jan. 26, Davis was charged with Schmalbach’s murder and extradited to Lee County to face 18 charges, including tampering with evidence and fraud. 

Davis, who has not been cooperative with detectives, has repeatedly tried to assert his innocence. 

In his court appearance in Lee County Friday, Davis claimed to be in fear of his life and under psychiatric care, and the judge postponed his bond hearing for 24 hours.

“I have very strong feelings about if I ever see him in a room,” said Sherry. “It’s just I don’t know how I’m gonna handle it when I see him. I really don’t.”

Sherry said she would be in the courtroom when Davis goes to trial.

The heartbreak and lingering questions surrounding Schmalbach’s case have left his family and friends searching for closure. 

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