Waukesha, Wisconsin — A tragic incident unfolded in Waukesha after 17-year-old Ronnie Fuentez allegedly beat his uncle, who was also his roommate, over a dispute involving a sleepover.
The victim succumbed to his injuries in May, leading to an upgrade in charges against Fuentez from battery to murder.
What Happened?
On the night of February 1, 2025, Fuentez and his uncle, who had been living together for approximately four years, got into an argument.
The uncle refused to allow Fuentez to have a friend sleep over, and when he instructed Fuentez to send the friend home, the dispute escalated.
The victim reported that Fuentez began to punch him in the head with a closed fist, even as he tried to defend himself. The altercation continued with Fuentez allegedly shouting derogatory remarks as he hit the victim multiple times.
After the fight, Fuentez left the residence and returned the next morning, though the friend involved in the argument was not mentioned further.
Victim’s Health Declines
The victim did not immediately seek medical attention but began experiencing worsening symptoms in the following days. On February 3, the victim developed a severe migraine but felt better after taking over-the-counter medication.
However, the symptoms persisted, and by February 5, he began struggling with speech. Concerned, his mother took him to the hospital, where it was discovered he had an internal brain bleed. He was placed in intensive care but ultimately passed away in May.
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Legal Charges
Fuentez was out on bond for a previous crime committed in September 2024 when the altercation occurred. In addition to the murder charge, he is also facing a misdemeanor charge of bail jumping, as he allegedly violated the terms of his bond.
Fuentez is set to appear in Waukesha County court this Saturday.
What are Your Thoughts?
This devastating case highlights the importance of addressing conflicts before they escalate to violence. What measures do you think should be taken to prevent such tragic events from happening?
How can we better support young people facing emotional and mental health challenges? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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