A patient placed on a medical hold at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, Minnesota, has been charged with second-degree homicide after a hospital security officer was allegedly beaten to death on Christmas Day. Surveillance footage reportedly shows 35-year-old Jonathan Winch repeatedly striking 43-year-old Andrea Merrell, who died two days later from traumatic head injuries. Winch was arrested at the scene, a Taser was used during his detention, bail was set at $2 million, and a competency evaluation has been ordered; his next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 27.
Minn. Patient On Medical Hold Allegedly Beats Hospital Security Guard To Death On Christmas Day
give a handAndrea Merrell
On Christmas Day, a hospital security officer at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, Minnesota, was allegedly beaten to death by a patient who attempted to flee the emergency department after being placed on a medical hold.
Authorities identified the suspect as 35-year-old Jonathan Winch. He was charged with one count of second-degree homicide in connection with the death of 43-year-old security officer Andrea Merrell, the Chisago County Attorney's Office said in a press release.
Surveillance Footage And Immediate Response
According to a criminal complaint cited by the county attorney's office, surveillance video reportedly shows a shirtless Winch repeatedly striking Merrell after she encountered him in the hospital parking lot. The release describes the footage:
"The footage depicts two individuals near the hospital security vehicle. The larger person wearing dark pants and no shirt was in a physical altercation with a smaller person. The smaller-framed person, Merrell, is ultimately observed to be on the ground, with the larger person, Winch, on top of Merrell..."
First responders found Merrell unconscious with severe head trauma, agonal breathing and a very weak pulse, according to reporting that summarized the criminal complaint. She was transported to Regions Hospital in St. Paul for treatment but died two days later. The medical examiner determined the cause of death was "traumatic head injuries due to physical assault."
Arrest, Use Of Taser And Statements
Police say Winch was arrested at the scene after allegedly jumping onto the security vehicle's windshield and attempting to get inside. A responding officer deployed a Taser to gain control after Winch reportedly refused commands. Local reporting noted that while struggling with officers, Winch said, "I didn't mean to hurt her." Authorities have not released a motive.
Hospital Reaction And Community Support
M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital posted a statement remembering Merrell as a "valued member of our security team" and said, "Our hearts are with her loved ones and coworkers during this incredibly difficult time. We are focused on supporting our teams and ensuring they have the resources they need."
Friends and community members have launched an online fundraiser to support Merrell's family. Colleagues and friends described her as strong and service-oriented, with one friend telling the Minnesota Star Tribune, "I'm still shocked. I'm still in denial."
Legal Proceedings
At an initial hearing on Dec. 29, bail was set at $2,000,000 and the court ordered a competency evaluation while Winch remains in custody, the county attorney's office said. Court records and reporting indicate Winch's next appearance is scheduled for Jan. 27. The investigation is ongoing.
Sources: Chisago County Attorney's Office press release; CBS News; KARE 11; Minnesota Star Tribune; M Health Fairview statement.
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