Deaths of estranged couple being investigated as murder-suicide, authorities say

Officials in Barron County are investigating the deaths of a separated couple as a murder-suicide, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Deputies responded to a home just north of Chetek, Wis., around 12:50 p.m. Sunday on a report of a woman lying outside in a pool of blood, not moving.

At the scene, officials used a bearcat to approach the home and found the woman, 51-year-old Michelle Turnipseed, outside the residence. She was pronounced dead at the scene from apparent stab wounds.

A man, 53-year-old Michael Turnipseed, was found dead inside of the home, also from apparent stab wounds.

The Barron County Sheriff’s Office noted that deputies had previously responded to the same home for a domestic disturbance in September. There had also been an active case in the court system involving the two, but there was not a no-contact order in place, authorities said.

Investigators believe Michael got to the home around noon on Sunday, with Michelle agreeing to that arrangement. There was an altercation and both were fatally stabbed.

A knife was found next to Michael’s body, according to authorities.

Wisconsin court records show that in September, Michael was charged with intentionally pointing a firearm at someone and disorderly conduct. Both counts were modified to specify domestic abuse.

His next court appearance was scheduled for January.

Court records also show that Michelle filed for divorce in September.

The Sheriff’s Office shared the following resources for victims of abuse:

  • Embrace 1-800-924-0556
  • St Croix Valley Sexual Assault Response Team 715-425-6443
  • Community Referral Agency 1-800-261-7233

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, several resources are available to offer help. For immediate help, contact:

More than 12 million people just in the U.S. are affected by domestic violence every year, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

The organizations listed above can help connect victims to resources like safe shelter, advocacy, legal help and support groups.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline also offers tips for identifying abuse and supporting victims of abuse. CLICK HERE to see those.

Other organizations that can help include:

Minnesota also has a list of many other resources for victims of crimes that can be found HERE.