No Arrest In Wauwatosa Man's Stabbing Death 6 Months Later

WAUWATOSA, WI—Six months have passed since the an investigation into the homicide of Wauwatosa resident John Craig Schmutzer began. The Sauk County Sheriff’s Office is asking again for help finding the person responsible.

On Oct. 14, Schmutzer was found stabbed to death at 11:30 am on Grottos Trail, located on the south side of the east bluff, at Devils Lake State Park. Police believe the crime was random. It's unlikely the suspect knew him, according to the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a social media post by the sheriff's office:

"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."

Lt. Chris Zunker of the Sauk County Sheriff's Office said in a, November press conference, they are asking visitors to Devil's Lake State Park are asked to recall events that may have witnessed on Oct. 14 around 11:30 a.m. Also if they recall any unusual encounters at the stat park in the days leading up to John's death.

"While we wish to understand the events leading to John's death, we are also concerned the person who stabbed him may be a danger to himself or others," Zunker said.

Zunker said the person may be exhibiting signs of instability as the result of a stressful life event in the days or weeks prior to Oct. 14. Zunker added it could be a change in relationship, employment, schooling, health, or another life status.

"The impact of the stressful event may have been additionally complicated by underlying mental health challenges, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or some combination thereof, he said.Zunker said friends and family may know this person carries a knife with him and may have observed changes in his behavior which they consider "worrisome." He said the person might be having anxiety and stress from John's death which will likely get worse as time passes. The person may have shown increased attention to news surrounding the case.

The person is likely to have become increasingly angry and abusive and show a poor ability to control his emotions and has the potential to act impulsively and disregard possible consequences, Zunker said.

Zunker said he may have changed his appearance, car, or left the area entirely without giving an explanation. He may have missed work, family events, or withdrawal from other normal activities.
"It is possible this person may hurt himself in the act of stabbing John. People may have observed blood on his clothing or he sought treatment for his injuries," Zunker said.

Zunker added if he was injured, it is likely he told people he was the victim of a crime or suffered a serious accident.

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.

About John

According to Schmutzer's obituary, he was a a 2014 graduate of Wauwatosa West High School and continued his studies at UW-Madison where he majored in Finance, Investments and Banking - graduating in May of 2018.

John continued working for Jeffries Financial Group in New York where he was an analyst for the Healthcare Division.

Besides his love of animals, John had a passion for wine, loved travel, Fall was his favorite time of year and he loved classical music.

According to his obituary, a Foundation in John's name will be established to focus on animal welfare, care and training.

"Above all, John loved his family. For now, our Quartet will be a Trio until we meet again. John is at Peace and we know that Love leaves more behind than Death can take away," his obituary said.