Man arrested for murdering Wisconsin woman and two girls
- Virgil Thew, 47, was captured after being identified as the suspect in the murder of Elizabeth Kolba and two girls.
- Authorities launched an investigation, and the FBI and U.S. Marshals joined the search for Thew.
- The arrest of Thew concluded a week-long search, showcasing the importance of public tips in solving the case.
On December 30, 2023, Elizabeth Kolba, 33, and two girls, ages 12 and 13, were found shot to death in a home in New Lisbon, Wisconsin. The investigation quickly identified Virgil Thew, 47, as a suspect, who had a known relationship with the victims. Authorities launched a homicide investigation and requested assistance from the FBI and U.S. Marshals on January 6, 2024, as the search intensified. The police actively sought public assistance by sharing Thew's name and photo over social media, which led to tips from community members. On January 11, 2024, he was captured approximately 30 minutes after a citizen reported a suspicious individual in Elroy, a town near New Lisbon. Local law enforcement, alongside federal agencies, increased their presence in Elroy while pursuing the suspect's whereabouts. Virgil Thew faces three counts of first-degree intentional homicide, according to court records. However, as of the most recent updates, it remained unclear whether he had obtained legal representation to respond to the charges. The community and law enforcement have emphasized the collaborative efforts that contributed to Thew's apprehension, expressing appreciation for citizens who provided tips. The recent violent incident has raised concerns about community safety in New Lisbon and surrounding areas, prompting discussions around crime prevention and domestic safety. As the investigation continues, many in the community are awaiting further details and anticipated court proceedings against Thew following the tragic loss of Kolba and the two young girls.