A Wisconsin man has been arrested for allegedly killing his wife and dumping her body in a cornfield. The 70-year-old suspect is facing charges of first-degree intentional homicide, domestic abuse by strangulation and suffocation, and hiding a corpse in connection with the death of his 68-year-old wife in New Richmond.
Authorities responded to a call around 1:45 p.m. on Sunday regarding a possible domestic disturbance at the couple’s home. The 911 caller reported that the suspect had made concerning statements earlier that day, suggesting he may have harmed his wife. When officers arrived, they found the suspect but were unable to locate his wife or reach her by phone.
A little more than two hours later, officers discovered her body on the edge of a cornfield in a rural area north of the city. According to a criminal complaint, the suspect initially claimed that his wife had “rambled” at him for hours before allegedly hitting him. He stated that things escalated, but he struggled to provide further details. He admitted that he knew she was dead and, instead of seeking medical attention, panicked and decided to dispose of her body.
When asked where she was, he reportedly responded, “Oh, you didn’t find her?” before confirming, “She’s dead.” After disposing of the body, he allegedly began packing a suitcase and told officers he was ready to leave with them. During a search of the home, law enforcement officials reportedly discovered bloody gloves and several firearms.
The suspect was taken into custody and is currently being held on a $1 million bond. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing.
