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Competency Exam Ordered for Patient Charged in Minnesota Hospital Guard’s Christmas Killing

He remains jailed on $2 million bail, with a review hearing set for Jan. 27, 2026.

Overview

  • Prosecutors charged Jonathan Chet Winch, 35, with second-degree murder in the death of security guard Andrea Merrell, 43.
  • Charging documents say Winch left the emergency department despite a medical hold, leading to a parking lot confrontation.
  • Security video described in the complaint shows the larger person on top of Merrell, appearing to swing and strike at her.
  • The Ramsey County medical examiner ruled the death a homicide caused by traumatic head injuries from a physical assault.
  • Police say Winch resisted arrest, was Tasered after jumping on a squad car, and faces up to 40 years if convicted as the hospital supports staff and cooperates with investigators.