Wis. Son Killed Parents at Home, Then Died by Suicide After Police Pulled Him Over

Wisconsin Couple Murdered by Son in Tragic Family Incident Leading to Suicide After Police Standoff

On a tragic Tuesday afternoon, Wisconsin residents were shocked to hear about a devastating incident involving the Pabst family. David and Teri Pabst, a respected couple in their community, were found fatally shot in their Middleton home. The couple, both 64 years old, were beloved members of the community, with David serving as the Wisconsin State Patrol Bureau of Transportation Safety and Technical Services Director, and Teri working as an educator.

The heartbreaking turn of events unfolded when Dane County Sheriff’s deputies were called to the Pabst family home following a distressing 911 call from a family member. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered the lifeless bodies of David and Teri. They soon learned that the couple’s 25-year-old son, James, who was armed, had left the residence in a white Honda Accord.

A subsequent search for James led to a police chase, with Wisconsin State Patrol officers locating him on U.S. Highway 14 in Vernon County. James was pulled over by the authorities, but the situation took a tragic turn when he refused to comply with law enforcement’s instructions. After an hour of attempting to make contact with James, officers approached the vehicle to find that he had taken his own life.

The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that James died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigations by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office revealed that James had allegedly taken the lives of his parents sometime after 9:30 pm on the previous day. The community was left reeling from the news, struggling to comprehend the shocking turn of events that had unfolded within the Pabst family.

In a poignant statement released by the couple’s three daughters, Lora, Danielle, and Heidi, the family expressed their deep grief and disbelief over the loss of their parents. Describing David and Teri as loving grandparents and dedicated parents, the daughters shared fond memories of their parents’ kindness, generosity, and unwavering compassion towards others.

David, an esteemed member of the Wisconsin State Patrol, was known for his commitment to public service and road safety. His daughters highlighted his selfless nature and his willingness to help those in need, emphasizing the lasting impact he had on the community. The family also acknowledged the challenges they faced due to James’ struggles with mental illness, urging others facing similar difficulties to seek help and support.

As the community mourned the tragic loss of the Pabst family, messages of support and condolences poured in from all corners. The incident served as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of untreated mental health issues and the importance of seeking help in times of distress. The family’s story resonated with many, prompting discussions about mental health awareness and the need for accessible resources for those in crisis.

In the wake of this harrowing tragedy, the Pabst family’s legacy of love, compassion, and resilience shone through, touching the hearts of all who knew them. As the community grappled with the aftermath of the heartbreaking events, the Pabst family’s memory lived on, a testament to the enduring impact of their lives and the importance of coming together in times of sorrow and grief.