Calvin Benjamin Harris, an 8-year-old boy from Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, tragically lost his life on July 26, 2019. Calvin was born on January 10, 2011, and was a beloved student at Christ Lutheran School in Chippewa Falls. He was known for his love of animals, especially goats, and his talent in playing the piano. Calvin was an excellent student, having won first place in his school's second-grade spelling bee.
The circumstances surrounding Calvin's death were part of a horrific
shooting spree carried out by his uncle, Ritchie German Jr. On the night of July 26, 2019, Ritchie German Jr. shot and killed his mother, Bridget German, his brother, Douglas German, and his nephew, Calvin Harris, at their home in the Town of Lafayette. Each victim was shot in the head. After killing his family members, Ritchie German Jr. drove to another location in Lake Hallie, where he killed a 24-year-old woman named Laile Vang and then took his own life.
The investigation revealed that Ritchie German Jr. had a troubled history and had been living with his mother intermittently. The motive behind the murders remains unclear, but the incident bore some resemblance to the kidnapping of Jayme Closs and the murder of her parents in Barron County, Wisconsin, which had occurred the previous year. The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office conducted a thorough investigation into the murders, but no further suspects were identified, and the case was closed following the confirmation of Ritchie German Jr.'s actions.
This tragic event left the community of Chippewa Falls in mourning, as they remembered Calvin Harris for his bright spirit and the joy he brought to those around him. The family held a private service at Calvin's school, and he was later laid to rest in California by his mother. The community continues to honor his memory and support his family during this difficult time.
