A tragic incident unfolded at a sports bar in downtown Elkorn, Wisconsin, where a convicted felon, Thomas Routt Jr, allegedly shot and killed a newlywed couple over a sum of less than $150. The horrifying incident occurred at the Sports Page Bar on February 1.
Thomas Routt Jr, aged 57, reportedly admitted to investigators his involvement in the crime, revealing that his motive was to rob the establishment.
Thomas Routt Jr appeared in a court hearing on Friday (Picture: YouTube)
The victims, identified as Gina Weingart, 37, and her husband Emerson Weingart, 33, tragically lost their lives during the ordeal.
Eyewitnesses present at the bar during the shooting described a terrifying scene, recounting how Routt brandished a handgun and ordered both Gina, who worked as a bartender at the establishment, and other patrons not to move. Routt allegedly proceeded to steal an amount estimated to be between $120 and $140 from the cash register before opening fire.
Amidst the chaos, one brave eyewitness managed to escape and alert authorities, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Thomas Routt Jr fled the scene in his vehicle but was apprehended by deputies from the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office on February 4. Further investigation revealed that Routt was on parole for previous convictions related to arson.
During his court appearance, emotions ran high as Jeff Weingart, the father of Emerson, expressed profound grief and frustration, questioning the system that allowed Routt to be paroled despite his criminal history.
Routt now faces multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree intentional homicide, attempted first-degree intentional homicide, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
The tragic loss of Gina and Emerson has left the community reeling, as they were cherished members of the Sports Page Bar family, known for their warmth and kindness.
Jordan Barr, the owner of the bar, conveyed deep sorrow over their untimely deaths, emphasizing the profound impact of this senseless act of violence on everyone who knew them.
This devastating event serves as a sad reminder of the grave consequences of gun violence. It underscores the urgent need to address underlying issues within the justice system to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community mourns the loss of Gina and Emerson, whose lives were cut short in a senseless act of brutality.
[m10news]
