Death of Viola Erb investigated as homicide, police confirm identity

The search for information into the death of an 88-year-old woman has turned into a homicide investigation.

Waterloo Regional Police confirmed on Wednesday that the victim is Viola Erb, the woman who started Erb Transport Ltd. with her late husband Vernon.

Erb Group of Companies, the overarching company, told The Record on Tuesday that Erb died over the weekend.

Emergency services were called to a house on Sandhills Drive for a medical call on Saturday at around 1:20 p.m.

The body of the 88-year-old woman was found at the home.

Initially, police deemed the death as suspicious, but further information has led detectives to declare the incident a homicide.

On Tuesday afternoon, police were seen investigating at 2781 Sandhills Dr., a house with the mailbox labelled “Vern Viola Erb.” Wilmot Mayor Les Armstrong said the township is “deeply saddened” to hear about Erb’s death, a loss that will be felt across the township.

“Viola has been a significant contributor to the Wilmot community, and alongside her husband Vernon, built one of the most successful transportation companies in the country,” Armstrong said in an emailed statement.

“Viola leaves behind a legacy of generosity, kindness, humility, and community service. She will forever be remembered as a community builder.”

The major crime unit continues to investigate Erb’s death.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-570-9777, extension 8191, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.