A shocking murder case in Wisconsin has left a local community in disbelief after an 80-year-old man allegedly shot and killed his wife at a popular nature preserve before opening fire at a nearby police department.
Authorities say the suspect later made disturbing claims, telling investigators that his wife was not human but a “creature” who had been pretending to be his spouse for decades.
80-Year-Old Man Charged in Wife’s Killing
George Paul, 80, has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide in the death of his wife, 80-year-old Susan Paul, according to the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office.
In addition to the murder charge, Paul is also facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Intentionally pointing a firearm at another person
- Recklessly endangering safety with a firearm
- Criminal damage to property
- Discharging a firearm within 100 yards of a building
Shooting Happened at Pewitt’s Nest Nature Preserve
Authorities said the incident happened on May 8 at around 2 p.m. at Pewit’s Nest Nature Preserve, a well-known natural attraction located near Baraboo, Wisconsin.
Multiple witnesses reportedly saw George Paul pulling a woman from a vehicle before shooting her several times at close range in the preserve’s parking lot.
Witnesses immediately called 911, and deputies rushed to the scene.
When officers arrived, they found Susan Paul dead from multiple gunshot wounds.
Suspect Allegedly Fled Toward Baraboo
After the shooting, witnesses told investigators the suspect fled the area in a vehicle heading toward Baraboo.
Law enforcement quickly identified both the victim and the suspect as George and Susan Paul.
An urgent search was launched as authorities attempted to track down the suspect.
Gunfire Reported at Local Police Department
About an hour after the fatal shooting, authorities received another emergency call—this time from the Sauk Prairie Police Department.
Police said a man drove into the department’s parking lot in a Kia Carnival minivan, got out, and fired multiple shots at the front entrance and vestibule of the building.
Fortunately, no officers or staff members were injured during the shooting.
Police Stop Vehicle and Arrest Suspect
Shortly after the police station shooting, officers stopped the suspect’s vehicle and confirmed it matched the one involved in the earlier homicide.
Authorities arrested George Paul without further violence.
Investigators reportedly found:
- A handgun inside the vehicle
- A purse believed to belong to the victim
- Blood evidence inside the minivan
Suspect Claimed Wife Was a “Creature”
During police questioning, investigators say George Paul made disturbing statements.
According to court documents, Paul allegedly claimed his wife was actually a “creature” who had been pretending to be Susan for 55 years.
He reportedly told detectives he believed such creatures were trying to take over the world and said he fired at the police department because he wanted officers to pay attention to his warnings.
Prior Mental Health Concerns Reported
Authorities said George Paul was already known to law enforcement due to previous concerning behavior.
Reports indicate he had shown signs of dementia and had allegedly made violent threats toward police staff in the past.
Investigators are now reviewing his mental health history as part of the ongoing case.
Court Proceedings Ahead
George Paul is currently being held in Sauk County Jail as the investigation continues.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on July 14 for a status conference.
The tragic death of Susan Paul has deeply affected the Wisconsin community, while the unusual claims made by the suspect have added another disturbing layer to an already heartbreaking case. Authorities continue gathering evidence as prosecutors move forward with the homicide case.
