WHEELOCK, Vt. – The small town of Wheelock, Vermont is reeling after the discovery of two shooting deaths in just two days. The first victim, Wilmer Rodriguez, 27, of Hartford, Connecticut, was found dead in Newport Town on Saturday night. Less than 48 hours later, another shooting occurred in Wheelock, about 30 miles away from the first crime scene. Vermont State Police are currently investigating both cases and have not identified any suspects at this time.
During a news briefing held by the Vermont State Police on Monday, investigators revealed that they do not believe the two deaths are related to each other or to a recent homicide in Castleton. The investigation into the second shooting in Wheelock is still in its early stages following the discovery of the victim’s body at a home on Route 16 at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Monday. While the victim’s identity has not been released, police have confirmed that the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite the lack of suspects in either case, Vermont State Police Major Dan Trudeau emphasized the need for public assistance in the investigations. Police have urged anyone with information or security camera footage near Route 16 and the surrounding roads to come forward and contact investigators. While there is no warning of a dangerous person on the loose, residents of Wheelock have been advised to remain vigilant.
As the investigations continue, residents in the affected areas are expressing concerns for their safety. One resident, Kassie Ferguson, voiced her fears, particularly for her four children, in light of the recent violence. The unsettling nature of the crimes has left the community on edge.
These two tragic deaths bring the total number of homicides in Vermont for 2023 to 17. This figure, while still below last year’s total of 25, remains a cause for concern within the state. The sudden spike in violent incidents has prompted a heightened sense of unease among residents, who are seeking answers and reassurance from law enforcement.
With investigations ongoing and no suspects in custody, the communities of Wheelock and Newport Town are left anxiously awaiting updates from law enforcement. The hunt for answers continues as police work tirelessly to bring closure to the affected families and ensure the safety of the public.