WAUKESHA, WI – Authorities in Waukesha have charged a 17-year-old boy with murder after his uncle died from severe injuries allegedly inflicted during a violent confrontation over a sleepover request, according to police.
The incident occurred on February 1 when Ronnie Fuentez, who lived with his uncle for the past four years, became angry after being told he could not have a friend stay the night, investigators said. Police say Fuentez’s frustration quickly escalated, resulting in a physical altercation inside their shared home.
According to court documents, the dispute began when Fuentez’s uncle insisted that Fuentez’s friend leave, sparking yelling and eventually punches. The uncle, whose name has not been released, recounted to police that Fuentez struck him repeatedly in the head with a closed fist. At one point during the altercation, the uncle attempted to defend himself but was allegedly struck several more times before Fuentez left the residence.
Fuentez reportedly returned to the home the next morning, but the full extent of the victim’s injuries would not be clear until days later. Initially, the uncle did not seek medical attention or contact law enforcement. However, on February 3, he mentioned experiencing a migraine, and by February 5, his condition had worsened as he struggled to speak coherently while on the phone with his mother. Fearing a stroke, his mother rushed him to the hospital, where doctors discovered a bleed in his brain.
The man was admitted to the intensive care unit at Waukesha Memorial Hospital, where he was able to explain to police what had happened. Despite treatment, his injuries proved fatal, and he died in late May, according to officials.
At the time of the attack, Fuentez was reportedly out on bond stemming from an unrelated incident the previous September. Prosecutors have since added a charge of misdemeanor bail jumping to the murder charge, stating Fuentez failed to adhere to the terms of his release.
Fuentez’s initial charge of battery was upgraded to murder following his uncle’s death. He is expected to appear in Waukesha County court this Saturday for a hearing related to the charges.
Officials have not released additional details about Fuentez’s friend or provided further information about the family. The Waukesha Police Department continues to investigate the events surrounding the fatal altercation.
If convicted, Fuentez could face significant prison time. The case has underscored the seriousness of domestic disputes and prompted local authorities to urge families to seek help before conflicts turn violent.