A bright and caring soul was tragically lost on October 21, 2021, when Karissa E. Peronto, a 27-year-old White female from Green Bay, Wisconsin, was found deceased in an Ashwaubenon duplex. A registered nurse, Karissa was known for her compassionate nature and dedication to helping others, a passion that was evident in her work in endocrinology at Prevea.
Her life, full of love for her family, friends, and faith, was cut short in what was determined to be a murder-suicide.
Concern arose when Karissa, who was born on November 11, 1993, did not show up for work. Colleagues, unable to reach her, requested a welfare check at her residence on Cedar Ridge Drive. When Ashwaubenon Public Safety officers arrived at the home, they heard a disturbance followed by gunshots from within the garage. A standoff ensued, and the Brown County SWAT team was called to the scene. To ensure the safety of the surrounding community, nearby residents were instructed to shelter in place, and some were evacuated.
After attempts to make contact with anyone inside were unsuccessful, a remote-controlled robot was deployed to enter the residence. Inside the garage, officers discovered the bodies of Karissa Peronto and 26-year-old Bryan Morales of Green Bay. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. The investigation into their deaths concluded that Morales shot and killed Peronto before turning the gun on himself.
Further investigation into Bryan Morales revealed a violent criminal history, including past convictions for child abuse and sexual assault. While the full nature of his relationship with Karissa was not publicly detailed by law enforcement at the time, the incident cast a local spotlight on the issue of domestic violence. No other suspects were sought in connection with the deaths, and no arrests were made, as the case was closed with the determination of a murder-suicide. Karissa was remembered by her loved ones as a woman with a deep love for the Lord, which she demonstrated through mission trips and her daily interactions. She was an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed hiking, kayaking, and skiing, and also had a passion for learning martial arts.
