Reward increased in Krentel investigation

COVINGTON, LA (WVUE) - The reward for information in the case of the death of a fire chief's wife has been increased.

The St. Tammany Parish Coroner ruled the death of Nanette Krentel, the wife of St. Tammany Fire District No. 12 Chief Stephen Krentel, a homicide.

It was originally thought that Nanette died as a result of a house fire in Lacombe, but autopsy results confirmed she died of a gunshot wound to the head.

Nanette's father said he was troubled over the lack of progress in the investigation into her death. The Crimestoppers reward has been increased to $10,000.

The case remains under investigation by the sheriff's office and the state fire marshal's office with assistance from the F.B.I.

The Civil Service Board of Covington-based Fire Dist. 12 voted November 1 to launch an investigation into Stephen.
The vote came on his first day back at work since the homicide of Nanette.

Stephen said he is not doing well after one of his firefighters initiated the investigation into allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate as well as theft allegations.

Those were brought forward by firefighter Tom Williamson.

The allegations could open the fire district to litigation.

Stephen admitted to the affair but said his wife was aware of it.

The new investigation may also look into allegations of nepotism against Stephen.