Continuing Investigation - Devils Lake Homicide

On October 14, 2020, the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources began an investigation into the homicide of Wauwatosa, WI resident John Schmutzer that occurred at about 11:30 am on Grottos Trail located on the south side of the east bluff at Devils Lake State Park.

As we have now passed the 6 month mark in this investigation, hundreds of tips have been investigated with even more interviews conducted, many search warrants have been executed and physical evidence examined.

The public has been forthcoming with information when requested which has led to identification of persons who we have needed to speak with as well as avenues to investigate, yet we are still in search of a suspect in this case.

Throughout the investigation, we have spoken to many witnesses from the area of South Lake Rd near the Group Camp and CCC Trail and along the East Bluff Trail that describe a male running “frantically” and “out of control” north from the parking lot at the group camp in front of traffic, presumably onto or near Grottos Trail then north on East Bluff trail to the north shore area of Devils Lake.

Witnesses report that this person was roughly 6 feet tall, slender to average build, with darker colored pants with ripped out knees, and a dark colored top, possibly a hoodie. The clothing was described as “not standard running apparel.”

The person was reported to have fallen down while running north on multiple occasions.

Based on the timeline of events and locations where this person was reported to be seen, we have identified him as a person of interest in this case, however, we need the publics assistance in providing more information if they have any.

We still believe that someone knows or believes they know who the person responsible for this homicide is and encourage them to call us with that information.

As noted in a November 11th press conference, the person responsible for this crime may still be a danger to himself or others, may have been exhibiting signs of instability in the days or weeks prior to the incident or may have underlying mental health or drug or alcohol abuse challenges.

Friends or family may be aware he carries a knife and may have seen changes in behavior that they believe worrisome. The individual may have begun suffering and displaying additional stress or anxiety as a result of John’s death and may have become increasingly angry and abusive. He may have followed the news of this case closely, changed his appearance, vehicle or left the area entirely without explanation.

We renew our call to the public for information. If you were at or in the vicinity of Devils Lake State Park (to include the rural Baraboo area) on October 14, 2020 at any time, and recall seeing or encountering a person that may fit this description anywhere in the park or area and have information to provide, or you know or suspect you know who is responsible for the death of John Schmutzer, you are asked to call Sauk County Crime Stoppers at 1-888-847-7285. You may also email tips to tipsubmit.com or by text by texting “tipsauk” to 274637.

Chip Meister

Sauk County Sheriff