Ashlee C. Steele, aged 39, tragically died on August 22, 2014, in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. She was found deceased alongside her sister, Kacee Tollefsbol. The incident was a shocking and unexpected event that deeply affected their family and community. Ashlee was remembered as a loving mother, devoted wife, and a cherished teacher at Christ Memorial Preschool. She had a vibrant personality and was deeply loved by her family and friends.
The investigation into Ashlee Steele's death revealed that she and her sister were victims of a double homicide. The primary suspect in the case was Ashlee's husband, Andrew Steele, a former Dane County sheriff's deputy. Andrew Steele had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, which is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
On the day of the murders, Andrew Steele was found at the scene with self-inflicted injuries, indicating an apparent suicide attempt. He was subsequently arrested and charged with the murders of his wife and sister-in-law. During the trial, his defense argued that his actions were influenced by his ALS diagnosis, which had severely impacted his mental state. In April 2015, a Dane County jury found Andrew Steele not guilty by reason of mental defect.
Following the trial, Andrew Steele was committed to the Mendota Mental Health Institute. However, due to the progression of his ALS, which left him unable to move or speak, he was later released to live with his parents under strict medical supervision. Andrew Steele passed away in March 2017 due to complications from ALS.
The case of Ashlee Steele's death is a tragic example of how severe illness can impact mental health and lead to devastating consequences. The community continues to remember Ashlee and Kacee for their positive contributions and the love they shared with those around them.
