Man Arrested for Home Invasion in Wisconsin Rapids

Tuesday, April 16th, 2024 -- 8:01 AM

During the week of April 8th, the City of Wisconsin Rapids Police Department took a report of an individual who entered a home and held two individuals at gunpoint for several hours while he demanded property.

This individual was identified as Austin J. Knuesel (Age: 36). During the incident while inside the residence, Knuesel discharged one round into the ceiling. It was reported that Knuesel was in possession of a sawed-off shotgun during the assault.

When Knuesel left the residence he made comments that if he did not receive his property, he would come back and kill everyone in the house. On April 13th, the Wood County Sheriff's Department confirmed the location of Knuesel and executed a search warrant at his residence on CTH D in the Town of Sigel, Wood County.

Knuesel was arrested without incident and a sawed-off shotgun was located inside of his residence. Also located inside the residence was a large quantity of suspected marijuana.

On April 15th, the Wood County Sheriff's Department executed a search warrant in connection to the shooting in the City of Wisconsin Rapids. Evidence of the shooting was recovered and four individuals were taken into custody after a short standoff.

Residences on or near 8th Ave South in the City of Wisconsin Rapids likely noticed a large police presence including the Wood County Sheriff's Departments armored vehicle. All four individuals were taken into custody on charges not related to the shooting. 

At the time of Austin Knuesel's arrest on April 13th, he was out on bond for Child Sexual Assault, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and drug related charges. At this time Knuessel is being held at the Wood County Jail on $100,000 cash bond.

The Wood County Sheriff's Department was assisted by the Wisconsin Rapids Police Department during both search warrants. This incident is still under investigation and limited information can be released.

No individuals were injured during the shooting incident or during the apprehension of the suspects. Citizens of Wood County are safer because Austin Knuessel is in a controlled environment. 

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