On May 22, 2024, 61-year-old Roger L. Letson, a White/Caucasian male, and his wife, Valerie A. Letson, 58, were discovered deceased in their home in Fulton, Wisconsin. Law enforcement found the couple after conducting a welfare check, which had been requested by family members who were unable to contact them. The Rock County Medical Examiner's office later confirmed that both individuals died as a result of gunshot wounds.
Further investigation into the circumstances of their deaths led
authorities to classify the incident as a murder-suicide. It was determined that Roger Letson shot his wife before taking his own life. Investigators noted a history of domestic issues between the couple, which may have been a contributing factor to the tragic events. Authorities have stated that they are not seeking any suspects and that the incident was isolated to the residence.
Roger, born on January 6, 1963, in Amery, Wisconsin, was a co-owner of Isthmus Engineering, where he worked as an electrical controls assembler. He was known as a classic muscle car enthusiast with a particular passion for restoring Pontiacs, and his 1970 GTO had won numerous awards at car shows. A talented musician, he played the drums in several local rock bands in his youth, earning him the nickname "Zepp" due to his love for the band Led Zeppelin. He was also skilled in home remodeling and crafting his own RC cars, planes, and models.
He and Valerie were married on May 4, 1991, and they had one daughter, Leah. Roger was remembered as a loving husband and father. The community has been left to grapple with the sudden and tragic loss, sparking conversations about the importance of addressing domestic violence and mental health issues. A combined funeral service for Roger and Valerie was held as friends and family mourned their passing.
