In a chilling case from Wisconsin, a 60-year-old man, identified as C. Granahan, has been charged with first-degree reckless homicide and other serious crimes following the brutal death of his 61-year-old neighbor and former romantic partner.
The victim, who died from injuries inflicted during a violent attack, had previously trusted Granahan but ultimately became a victim of his rage.
The Violent Attack
The tragic events unfolded on April 25, 2024, when Granahan went to his neighbor’s apartment in the early hours of the morning to inquire about a missing cigarette case.
According to court documents, the woman denied knowing where the case was, which reportedly caused Granahan to become enraged. What followed was a violent assault that left the victim with severe injuries.
Granahan allegedly threw her to the ground, stomped on her chest, and threatened to break her neck. The attack escalated when Granahan reportedly grabbed a large knife and began sawing at the back of her neck, threatening, “I’m going to cut your head off.”
Despite the brutal assault, the woman survived long enough to give a detailed statement to police after her caregiver discovered her bleeding and in pain later that day.
The Victim’s Statement
The victim, after being discovered by her caregiver, was transported to a local hospital with multiple injuries, including a large cut to the back of her neck, facial bruising, and a wound to her thumb, which was believed to be a defensive injury.
According to her statement, Granahan stomped on her chest, repeatedly tried to saw through her neck with the knife, and only stopped when he could not cut through her bones. Afterward, he reportedly set the knife down and resumed searching for his missing cigarette case before leaving the apartment.
The Woman’s Decline and Death
The woman’s condition initially seemed stable, but on April 29, her health rapidly deteriorated, and she required emergency brain surgery to stop internal bleeding. Unfortunately, she never regained consciousness and fell into a coma-like state. She passed away on May 8, 2024.
A forensic autopsy confirmed that her death was caused by blunt force trauma to the head, directly linking her death to the assault on April 25.
History of Abuse
The fatal attack was not the first time Granahan had shown violent behavior toward the woman. Court records indicate that Granahan and the victim had been in an on-and-off relationship since 2023.
In the weeks prior to the fatal assault, Granahan had reportedly hit her in the head with a cigarette rolling machine, leaving visible bruising. Although this earlier attack was reported to authorities, no charges were filed at the time, raising concerns about missed opportunities to intervene.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Granahan has been charged with first-degree reckless homicide, physical abuse of an elder person using a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct with enhanced penalties due to the victim’s age and the use of a weapon.
Following his arrest, Granahan was committed to a mental health institute, where he is undergoing treatment. His attorney stated that medications have stabilized his condition.
The court found probable cause to move forward with the case, and Granahan was held on a $250,000 cash bond. He has been ordered not to possess any weapons and to take all prescribed medications.
Granahan is currently held in the county jail and is scheduled for arraignment on June 3. If convicted of first-degree reckless homicide, he faces up to 60 years in prison. The additional charges could lead to 17 more years of imprisonment, with further penalties due to the use of a weapon and the victim’s age.
Public Outrage and Family’s Grief
The case has sparked outrage and grief in the local community. Those close to the victim have expressed frustration over the failure to act after previous reports of violence. The family and community members are now calling for justice for the victim, whose final moments were marked by horrific abuse from someone she had once trusted.
As the legal process continues, the victim’s family hopes that the court proceedings will bring justice and ensure that Granahan is held accountable for his actions. The tragic details of this case have served as a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and abuse.