Jack Willhoit, 44, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the death of 49-year-old Evelyn Willhoit, according to the Washoe County District Attorney’s Office. He was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole by Judge Kathleen Drakulich.
Violent Scene Inside Reno Motel
The killing occurred late on May 21, 2024, at the Parkway Lodge on Park Street in Reno. Officers with the Reno Police Department responded around 9:30 p.m. to a 911 call placed by the defendant, who claimed his wife was overdosing on narcotics.
When officers arrived, they found Evelyn Willhoit suffering from extensive injuries and pronounced her dead at the scene. Investigators described blood staining and splatter throughout the motel room, including on the walls and a trash can lid.
Authorities said the victim had severe blunt and sharp force injuries, including cuts and bruises across her face, a large wound on her neck, and apparent burn marks on her chest and arm. An autopsy later determined she died from multiple blunt and sharp force injuries due to physical assault.
Weapons and Admissions
Investigators reported finding blood on several items in the room, including household appliances, a handheld torch, a knife, a screwdriver, and the victim’s walking cane.
Detectives also observed swelling and cuts on Jack Willhoit’s hands and forearms. Initially, he told police his wife overdosed and later claimed she had attacked him during an argument involving alcohol and prescription medication. He said both struggled with bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder.
After initially denying involvement, Willhoit eventually admitted to punching his wife. Prosecutors described the attack as exceedingly violent.
With his guilty plea and life sentence, the case has now concluded in Washoe County.
