Oconto Falls Man Convicted of Homicide by Negligent Handling of a Dangerous Weapon

MADISON — On Friday, July 22, 2011, following three days of evidence, an Oconto Circuit Court jury found Jordan J. Walker, 20, of Oconto Falls, guilty of Homicide by Negligent Handling of a Dangerous Weapon and Obstructing an Officer in connection with the death of a 19 year-old man. Sentencing is set for September 27, 2011 at 1:00 pm.

According to the criminal complaint, in the early morning hours of June 19, 2010, Walker, the victim and others were in the backyard of Walker's residence where alcohol was being consumed by some, or all of the persons present, including Walker. Walker had a loaded handgun that he repeatedly unloaded and re-loaded and, with the handgun unloaded, repeatedly pointed it at his friends and “dry fired.” At one point, Walker acknowledged pointing the handgun over his shoulder, knowing that the victim was standing behind him. The firearm discharged and a single round struck the victim, causing death.

Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen remarked, “This is a death that should never have happened. Guns have no place in horseplay, especially when alcohol is involved.”

Assistant Attorney General Michael G. Schaefer represents the state in this prosecution. The investigation was conducted jointly by the Oconto Falls Police Department and the Division of Criminal Investigation.

Copies of the Criminal Complaint and the Criminal Information are available at the following links: