Suspect in Custody After Woman Killed in Washington County
Photo via Washington County Sheriff's Office
Authorities were searching for a man considered “dangerous” after a 68-year-old woman was found with fatal injuries at a Washington County residence Monday evening.
Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to a home on the 15900 block of Ingersoll Ave. N. in Hugo at about 5:55 p.m. after a 911 call was received with sounds of a woman moaning and a male voice shouting in the background.
Upon arrival at the residence, deputies found the woman, now identified as 68-year-old Charlene Wunderlich, suffering from severe traumatic injuries, with her son, 45-year-old Trevor Joseph Wunderlich, leaning over her. Emergency medical personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but the woman was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Her death is being investigated as a homicide, authorities have confirmed.
Deputies attempted to subdue Wunderlich with a taser, but he was able to break free and flee from the residence. A massive manhunt was then underway, with officers from multiple agencies searching for Wunderlich.
Authorities described Wunderlich as 6'1" tall, 225 lbs., with blue eyes, a bald head and a beard. He had last been seen near the 14800 block of Highway 61, wearing black and grey shorts and no shirt. Investigators had not determined if Wunderlich was armed, but they warned that he should be considered dangerous.
Minnesota court records show Wunderlich has a lengthy and violent criminal history including multiple felony assaults and violations of restraining orders. His history of violence has led to several felony convictions over the past decade and he has received multiple probation violations. According to one court document, Wunderlich’s mother had requested a no-contact order in August of 2021, but in September 2022 she requested that it be removed. That request was granted in December 2022.
The investigation into the killing is ongoing and the Minnesota BCA is assisting Washington County authorities.
UPDATE | Tuesday, Sept. 17: After an overnight search and manhunt that lasted until this morning, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office by around 11 a.m. had confirmed that Wunderlich had been located and taken into custody. Local law enforcement say just before 11:00 a.m., a citizen on the 9800 block of 152nd St. N. noticed a man matching the description of the suspect and called 911. Deputies immediately responded and arrested Wunderlich without incident.
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