On November 17, 2024, Andrea Elizabeth Broyld, a 40-year-old African American woman from Red Wing, Minnesota, was tragically killed in her home. Her partner, 41-year-old Darryl Dion Nixon Jr., was arrested and charged with second-degree murder following a tense, hours-long standoff with law enforcement.
The incident began when Nixon's mother contacted 911, reporting that her son was armed, suicidal, and had indicated that Andrea was 'gone.'
Responding officers arrived at Nixon's duplex on Putnam Avenue, where Nixon appeared distressed, holding a firearm, and repeatedly urged officers to shoot him. He fired a shot into the air before retreating inside, prompting a three-hour standoff. Negotiators eventually persuaded Nixon to surrender peacefully. Upon entering the residence, police discovered Andrea Broyld deceased on the couch, having suffered ten gunshot wounds to her back. Investigators recovered twelve 9mm shell casings near her body and an additional casing on the front steps of the home.
Court documents reveal that Nixon's mother informed authorities of her son's severe mental health issues, including hallucinations, and his possession of multiple firearms. She recounted that earlier that day, Nixon and Andrea had visited her home to pick up a sweet potato pie and appeared to be in good spirits. Approximately 15 minutes after their departure, Nixon called her, distraught, stating that Andrea was 'gone' and that he had shot her.
Andrea Broyld was remembered by friends and colleagues as a vibrant and compassionate individual. She worked at Starbucks, where she was known for her warm demeanor and for writing encouraging notes on customers' cups. Andrea grew up in Wisconsin's Milwaukee and Fox Cities areas and graduated from Kaukauna High School. She was an excellent cook, a phenomenal singer, and a cherished friend. She is survived by her mother, stepfather, three brothers, a sister, and several nieces and nephews.
Darryl Nixon Jr. is currently held in Goodhue County Jail with bail set at $1 million with conditions or $2 million without conditions. If convicted of second-degree murder, he faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
