Portage County Man Found Competent to Stand Trial for the Murder of his Parents

Thursday, September 11th, 2025 -- 12:01 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A Portage County Judge has deemed John Shulfer fit for trial.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, the 35-year-old is accused of killing his parents, Paula and Dale Shulfer, at their rural Portage County home on July 6th, then pointing the firearm at police when they arrived at the scene.

John Shulfer refused to drop the weapon and was shot by one of the responding officers. He was immediately provided with medical attention and was hospitalized. Court proceedings began shortly after he was discharged.

Two children were also present at the time, and they were turned over to a responsible party. Further court action has been scheduled for September 23rd. Trial dates have not been set, and Shulfer has yet to enter a plea to the charges.

The homicide charges carry an automatic life sentence, with only the possibility of parole to be discussed at trial.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.