Wisconsin authorities are conducting an intensive manhunt for 47-year-old Virgil G. Thew, a convicted felon and person of interest in a chilling case involving the deaths of two children and one adult. This tragic incident unfolded in the quiet town of New Lisbon, where residents are grappling with shock and grief as law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to locate Thew and piece together the events leading to the horrific discovery. The New Lisbon Police Department, along with the Juneau County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, and Wisconsin State Crime Lab, is spearheading the investigation while issuing an urgent public warning to avoid any contact with Thew, who is described as “armed and dangerous.”
The chain of events began on Sunday evening, December 29, 2024, when authorities received a report of a missing child. The child was last seen in the company of Virgil Thew, a man well-known to law enforcement due to his extensive criminal history spanning nearly three decades. The case took a darker turn on Monday morning when a second child was reported missing under similarly troubling circumstances. Hours later, police discovered the lifeless bodies of two children and one adult inside a residence on West Bridge Street in New Lisbon, Wisconsin. The identities of the victims have not yet been officially released, and it remains unclear whether the deceased children were the ones reported missing. The adult victim’s relationship to the children is also under investigation.
The house where the victims were found has become the epicenter of a massive forensic investigation, with crime scene technicians working meticulously to gather evidence that may shed light on the timeline of events and Thew’s potential involvement. Authorities have not disclosed the manner or cause of death, but the grim nature of the discovery has sent shockwaves through the small, tight-knit community of New Lisbon. Residents, many of whom are familiar with one another, expressed disbelief and sorrow over the tragedy.
Virgil G. Thew, now the subject of a statewide search, has a long and violent criminal history. Records reveal that Thew has been convicted of a dozen felonies, including burglary, theft, and possession of a firearm as a felon. His interactions with the justice system date back to 1995, with nearly annual incarcerations or parole violations since then. He was paroled in 2012 but has remained under active community supervision. Law enforcement officials stress that Thew should not be approached under any circumstances. “If seen, do not confront or approach him,” authorities warned in a statement, underscoring the potential danger he poses to the public.
The unfolding investigation has placed a spotlight on Thew’s history, raising questions about how a person with such an extensive record of violent offenses was allowed to remain in the community. Advocates for stricter parole regulations argue that Thew’s case highlights systemic failures in monitoring high-risk individuals after their release. Wisconsin Probation and Parole confirmed that Thew is currently under active supervision, though specifics about his recent compliance with parole conditions have not been disclosed.
Law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin have mobilized to apprehend Thew, with search efforts focusing on locations he is known to frequent. Helicopters, K-9 units, and tactical teams have been deployed in the search, and a multi-agency task force is coordinating resources to ensure a swift resolution. Authorities are also relying on tips from the public, urging anyone with information about Thew’s whereabouts to come forward immediately. Citizens are encouraged to contact the Juneau County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
As the manhunt continues, the community of New Lisbon is grappling with fear and heartbreak. Candles flickered in the windows of several homes Monday night as families came together to pray for the victims and their loved ones. “It’s just unimaginable,” said Mary Carter, a lifelong resident of New Lisbon. “This kind of thing doesn’t happen here. Our hearts go out to those poor children and everyone who loved them.”
Local leaders and advocacy groups have also expressed their condolences while emphasizing the need for community vigilance. The Wisconsin Coalition Against Violence issued a statement condemning the senseless loss of innocent lives and urging officials to prioritize the capture of Thew. “This tragedy underscores the urgent need for robust measures to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” the statement read.
Beyond the immediate search for Thew, the case has reignited debates about criminal justice policies and parole practices in Wisconsin. Critics argue that the state’s parole system lacks the necessary safeguards to prevent high-risk individuals from reoffending, while others point to the broader challenges of rehabilitation and reintegration for those with extensive criminal histories. “This is a systemic issue,” said Dr. Lisa Moreno, a criminologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “We need to ask hard questions about how we monitor and support individuals who have demonstrated a pattern of violent behavior. At the same time, we must ensure that the rights and safety of the broader community are not compromised.”
The investigation has also drawn attention to the role of community support in preventing and addressing cases of domestic violence, child endangerment, and criminal behavior. Organizations like the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families have offered assistance to those affected by the tragedy, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and education in preventing similar incidents.
Meanwhile, police continue to process the home on West Bridge Street, meticulously documenting evidence that may prove crucial in the search for justice. Forensic experts are analyzing physical evidence, including potential DNA, fingerprints, and other materials that could tie Thew to the crime scene. Investigators are also reviewing Thew’s known associates and recent activities in hopes of identifying patterns or leads that could pinpoint his location.
The tragedy has left an indelible mark on New Lisbon, a town that prides itself on its sense of community and safety. Schools in the area have offered counseling services to students and staff affected by the news, while local churches have opened their doors for prayer and reflection. “This is a time for us to come together as a community,” said Pastor James Hartman of New Lisbon Community Church. “We must support one another and remain vigilant as we seek answers and justice.”
As the hours turn into days, the search for Virgil G. Thew remains the top priority for law enforcement. The Wisconsin Department of Justice has joined the effort, offering additional resources and expertise to aid in the manhunt. Officials remain optimistic that Thew will be apprehended and face justice for his alleged involvement in this unthinkable tragedy.
The deaths of two children and one adult in New Lisbon serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of violence. As the investigation unfolds, the community and the nation await answers, hoping for swift justice and a renewed commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future. For now, the focus remains on finding Virgil G. Thew and bringing closure to a heartbroken town reeling from an unimaginable loss.
