Victims in Portage County Shooting Deaths Identified

Wednesday, July 9th, 2025 -- 2:01 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A 35-year-old man is suspected of killing his parents in the home they shared in Portage County.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, John Shulfer is accused of shooting his parents, Paula L. Shulfer, 52, and 53-year-old Dale S. Shulfer. Paula and Dale were found dead at the home, John was confronted by police as they responded to the scene.

Officers noted that John was armed and did not comply with orders to drop his weapon. Officers shot him and immediately provided treatment at the scene before he was hospitalized. Two children were also present at the time and are now in the care of other family members.

The officer that shot John, a 13-year veteran of the Portage County Sheriff’s Department, has been placed on administrative leave. Officers from neighboring Marathon and Wood Counties have been called in to handle the investigation. Court action against John is pending.

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