Mistrial Declared in Wisconsin Rapids Murder Case; New Trial Scheduled to Begin Monday

Friday, February 6th, 2026 -- 1:00 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A new trial has been scheduled for Randall Harris Jr.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, one day after a Wood County judge declared a mistrial, both sides reconvened and agreed to restart the proceedings on Monday, February 9th.

Harris Jr is accused of killing his father, 56-year-old Randall Harris Sr, in October 2025 during a heated argument. Investigators believe Harris Sr was shot and stabbed multiple times.

The younger Harris was immediately named a suspect and was arrested near the scene without incident. The trial began Monday with jury selection and opening arguments, but came to a screeching halt on Wednesday when the judge declared a Brady violation.

Meaning prosecutors suppressed evidence favorable to the defendant. Both sides returned to court Thursday morning and agreed to begin a new trial next week. Briefs from both sides will be due by Friday evening.

Harris Jr faces a mandatory life sentence if he’s found guilty on the homicide count. He also faces a count for recklessly endangering safety.

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