Andrea Merrell, a 43-year-old security guard at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, Minnesota, died on December 27, 2025, from traumatic head injuries after an alleged assault by patient Jonathan Winch on Christmas Day. Surveillance footage captured Winch, 35 and shirtless, repeatedly striking Merrell in the hospital parking lot during a physical altercation near a security vehicle, leaving her unconscious with severe head trauma and agonal breathing. First responders transported her to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, where she succumbed two days later.
Incident and Arrest Details
Winch, who was on a medical hold in the emergency department, allegedly tried to flee, leading Merrell to confront him outside. After the beating, he jumped on the security vehicle’s windshield and resisted arrest, prompting an officer to deploy a Taser for compliance; Winch reportedly said, “I didn’t mean to hurt her,” with no motive disclosed. Police arrested him at the scene.
Charges and Court Status
Chisago County charged Winch with second-degree murder; at his December 29 initial hearing, bail was set at $2 million, and a competency exam was ordered while he remains in custody. No plea or attorney details were available, and a fundraiser supports Merrell’s family, who described her as tough and helpful. The hospital mourned her as a valued team member.
