A hospital security guard was allegedly beaten to death on the job by a patient who authorities say attempted to escape the emergency department after being placed on a medical hold.
Jonathan Winch, 35, has been charged with one count of second-degree homicide in connection with the death of 43-year-old Andrea Merrell at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, Minnesota. The charge was announced by the Chisago County Attorney’s Office following the incident on Christmas Day.
According to a criminal complaint cited in the county attorney’s press release, surveillance video shows Winch, who was shirtless at the time, repeatedly striking Merrell as she lay on the ground in the hospital parking lot. The confrontation allegedly occurred after Merrell encountered him outside the facility that evening.
“The footage depicts two individuals near the hospital security vehicle,” the release states. “The larger person wearing dark pants and no shirt was in a physical altercation with a smaller person. The smaller-framed person, Merrell, is ultimately observed to be on the ground, with the larger person, Winch, on top of Merrell.”
First responders found Merrell unconscious with severe head injuries, agonal breathing, and a very weak pulse, CBS News reported, citing the criminal complaint.
She was transported to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, where she was treated for her injuries. Merrell died two days later. A medical examiner later determined that her death was caused by traumatic head injuries resulting from physical assault.
In a statement shared on social media on Saturday, Dec. 27, M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital described Merrell as a “valued member of our security team.”
“Our hearts are with her loved ones and coworkers during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read. “We are focused on supporting our teams and ensuring they have the resources they need.”
Police arrested Winch at the scene after he allegedly jumped onto the security vehicle’s windshield and attempted to enter it, according to the release. Officers used a Taser to gain control after Winch allegedly refused commands.
KARE 11 reported that during a struggle with a responding officer, Winch said, “I didn’t mean to hurt her.”
Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive for the attack.
In the days following Merrell’s death, loved ones organized an online fundraiser to support her family. Friends described her as resilient, caring, and deeply committed to helping others.
“I’m still shocked. I’m still in denial,” Merrell’s friend Pam Heaton told the Minnesota Star Tribune. Another friend, Heather Miller, said Merrell was tough and strong, adding that she “liked to help people.”
It remains unclear whether Winch has entered a plea or retained legal counsel.
At his initial court appearance on Dec. 29, bail was set at $2 million. The court also ordered a competency evaluation while Winch remains in custody, according to the county attorney’s office. The Minnesota Star Tribune reported that his next court date is scheduled for Jan. 27.
