BARABOO, Wis. — An 80-year-old man has been charged with the death of his wife following a shocking incident at Pewitt’s Nest Nature Preserve, where witnesses reported seeing a woman shot in broad daylight. George Paul faces multiple charges, including first-degree intentional homicide, in connection with the death of Susan Paul, also 80, on May 8.
According to law enforcement, the tragedy unfolded around 2 p.m. when multiple calls were made to the Sauk County Dispatch Center. Witnesses described a man forcibly pulling a woman from a vehicle and shooting her several times in the parking area of the popular nature spot. Deputies arrived just minutes later to find Susan Paul dead from multiple gunshot wounds, prompting an immediate investigation.
As authorities began to secure the scene, the suspect’s vehicle was identified as a Kia Carnival minivan. Less than an hour later, that same minivan appeared in a new setting — the parking lot of the Sauk Prairie Police Department, where George Paul allegedly fired several shots into the building. Fortunately, no officers were injured during this second act of violence.
After a coordinated effort, officers apprehended Paul shortly after he left the police station. Investigators later confirmed that evidence linked the suspect to both the shooting at the preserve and the gunfire at the police department. Among the items obtained were a handgun, personal belongings identified as belonging to Susan Paul, and blood found within the vehicle.
The complaint filed against Paul reveals disturbing statements he made to detectives. He reportedly claimed to have shot his wife because he believed she was an imposter masquerading as his spouse for decades. His declarations have raised concerns regarding his mental health, leading to a court-ordered competency evaluation. This step could influence the direction of the case, as authorities seek to determine whether he can aid in his defense.
The range of charges against Paul also includes several counts related to reckless endangerment and discharging a firearm within proximity to a building. During a recent hearing, prosecutors requested a bond of $10 million, while Paul’s defense attorney sought a significantly lower amount. The court ultimately set his bond at $1 million cash.
Pewitt’s Nest, known for its serene landscapes and wooded paths, became the focus of an unexpected and violent crime, raising concerns within a usually quiet community. At the same time, the shooting at the police station shifted some of the focus back onto public safety, though authorities assured the community that there was no ongoing threat.
Authorities continue to collect and analyze evidence as they progress with the investigation. They have not yet released detailed accounts of the couple’s activities leading up to the shooting, leaving many questions unanswered.
In the aftermath of this incident, George Paul remains in the Sauk County Jail as the case advances through the judicial process. The next step is a status conference scheduled for July 14, where further developments regarding the competency evaluation and other aspects of the case will be reviewed.