In the quiet town of Sparta, Wisconsin, a devastating act of violence has left the community reeling. Ticarra Danelle Manning, a mother of two boys, has tragically passed away after being severely beaten, allegedly by her ex-boyfriend, Andrew Nauman, a 39-year-old man with a criminal history. The incident occurred on October 6, 2024, when police responded to reports of a domestic disturbance at a residence on West Oak Street. Manning, who had been discovered with life-threatening injuries, was rushed to a trauma center for treatment but sadly succumbed to her injuries soon after.
The domestic violence incident has sent shockwaves through not only Sparta but also neighboring La Crosse, where Manning was well-known and beloved. Friends, family, and neighbors remember her as a devoted mother and a kind-hearted woman who brought joy to all who knew her. As news of her tragic death spread, plans for a community candlelight vigil began to take shape. The vigil, organized by a close friend, Angela Almeida-Livangood, was announced on social media with an outpouring of love for Manning. In honor of her, attendees were asked to wear tie-dye clothing, a nod to Manning’s love for the vibrant colors and her free-spirited personality. The vigil is meant to celebrate her life, with loved ones sharing stories, memories, and prayers for her family.
Manning’s relationship with Nauman, described by many as toxic, had been marked by a history of violence. Just months before the fatal altercation, Nauman had been arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, battery, and strangulation in a separate domestic abuse case involving another victim. Released on bail, he was awaiting trial when the incident with Manning occurred. Authorities in Monroe County quickly apprehended Nauman after the October 6 assault, charging him with multiple counts, including aggravated battery and attempted first-degree intentional homicide. With the passing of Manning, these charges are expected to be upgraded to murder.
The tragic sequence of events has raised serious questions about the criminal justice system’s ability to protect victims of domestic abuse. Nauman, who was on bail from previous charges, should have been under closer supervision, critics argue. Advocates for domestic violence victims point to this case as another heartbreaking example of how the system often fails those most in need of protection.
Local law enforcement has been tight-lipped about the specific circumstances that led to Manning’s death, but officials have confirmed that there was a violent altercation between Manning and Nauman. Neighbors reported hearing loud shouting from the home before police arrived on the scene. The sight of officers carrying Manning out on a stretcher left the usually peaceful street in stunned silence.
Community support for Manning’s family, especially her two young boys, has been overwhelming. Fundraisers have been started to assist with funeral costs and to ensure the children are taken care of in the wake of their mother’s passing. Many have expressed their shock and sadness over the loss of a woman who was known for her warmth, dedication to her children, and passion for life. Manning was heavily involved in her sons’ education and extracurricular activities, often seen at their sports events and school functions.
The La Crosse community, where Manning had strong ties, has also been deeply affected by her death. Friends and family from the area have posted heartfelt tributes online, describing Manning as a beacon of kindness and positivity. “Her boys were her world,” one family friend shared. “She worked so hard to give them the best life possible. It’s unimaginable that she’s gone.”
The tragic nature of Manning’s death has reignited discussions about domestic violence prevention, with many calling for increased resources and protections for victims. Advocacy groups in Wisconsin are pushing for stricter laws surrounding bail for domestic abusers, pointing to Manning’s case as evidence that current laws are not sufficient. The fact that Nauman was able to commit such a heinous act while awaiting trial for previous violent offenses has left many questioning how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
As the investigation continues, police have stated that they are working diligently to gather all the necessary evidence to ensure justice is served. Prosecutors are expected to present additional charges against Nauman, and a trial date will likely be set once the case is reviewed. In the meantime, the community is left grappling with the senseless loss of a vibrant, caring woman who was taken far too soon.
Manning’s obituary is expected to be released in the coming days, with funeral arrangements to follow. Her family, still in shock from the devastating news, has requested privacy as they mourn their beloved Ticarra. Community members have expressed their willingness to support the family in any way possible, from helping with the boys to assisting with the logistics of the funeral. The candlelight vigil planned in her honor will undoubtedly serve as a cathartic moment for a grieving community still trying to come to terms with the brutal loss.
Domestic violence, unfortunately, continues to claim lives across the nation, with advocates urging victims to seek help through available resources. Manning’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that many individuals, particularly women, face in abusive relationships. As the community prepares to honor her memory, there is also a renewed sense of urgency to address the issue of domestic violence head-on and ensure that no more lives are lost to such preventable violence.
Ticarra Manning’s life, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Her love for her children, her passion for life, and her generous spirit will be remembered long after her passing. As her friends and family gather to say their final goodbyes, the hope is that her story will serve as a catalyst for change, pushing society to do more to protect those at risk of domestic violence. In the coming days, as more details about the case emerge and Manning’s family moves forward with plans for her memorial, the entire community will stand in solidarity, ensuring that her memory is honored and that her story is not forgotten.