Jamul Man Sentenced to 15 Years to Life for Killing His Elderly Mother

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that a 56-year-old man who killed his elderly mother in their Jamul home has been sentenced to 15 years to life in state prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder.

Travis Bodle pleaded guilty to the murder of his 77-year-old mother, Vicki Bodle, who suffered from Parkinson’s disease and was partially paralyzed requiring caregiving assistance.

On January 19, 2024, Bodle, who suffers from schizophrenia, attacked his mother with the blunt end of an eight-pound wood splitting maul. When the victim’s caregiver arrived at the home after picking up lunch for her and discovered that she had been seriously injured, she reported the incident to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff’s deputies responded to the home and, following an investigation at the scene, arrested Bodle. The following day, Vicki died from blunt force trauma to her head and neck.

“Vicki Bodle was a vulnerable elderly woman who depended on others for care, and tragically, she was killed by her own son,” District Attorney Summer Stephan said. “The cases involving family members severely injuring or killing members of their own family carry additional complexity and pain to the immediate family, neighbors and community. This sentence holds Bodle accountable for the devastating loss of his mother and provides justice for her and those who cared for her. Our office will continue to seek justice for victims of violent crimes, particularly those who are vulnerable and unable to protect themselves.”

Deputy District Attorney An Dang prosecuted the case.