Minnesota hospital patient accused of beating security guard to death while trying to flee

A tragic incident unfolded at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming on Christmas Day, when a deranged patient brutally attacked and killed security guard Andrea Merrell while attempting to flee the facility. The suspect, Jonathan Winch, 35, was on a medical hold at the hospital when he violently assaulted Merrell outside the building.

Merrell, a 43-year-old security guard, was found unresponsive at the scene and succumbed to her injuries two days later. The hospital expressed their condolences for the loss of Merrell, describing her as a valued member of their security team. They are providing support to Merrell’s loved ones and colleagues during this difficult time.

Surveillance footage captured the horrific attack, showing Winch fighting with Merrell in the parking lot before pinning her to the ground and delivering fatal blows. Despite backup arriving, Merrell was critically injured and unconscious on the ground. Winch then attempted to enter her security vehicle before jumping onto the windshield of a responding squad car. He was eventually subdued after a confrontation with law enforcement, during which he repeatedly claimed he did not intend to harm Merrell.

The motive behind Winch’s actions remains unclear, as does the reason for his hospitalization and placement on a medical hold. The Ramsey County Medical Examiner ruled Merrell’s cause of death as traumatic head injuries due to physical assault.

Merrell, who also served as a reserve police officer with the White Bear Police Department and fire department, was remembered by her friends for her kind-hearted nature and warm personality. She was known for making everyone feel safe and welcome during her shifts at the hospital.

Winch has been charged with second-degree murder and is being held on a $2 million bond. He has been ordered to undergo a mental competency exam while in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on January 27th. This senseless act of violence has left a community in mourning and a family grieving the loss of a beloved security guard.