New Richmond, WI – Wisconsin man will spend what is likely the remainder of his life in state custody after admitting he killed his wife during an argument and later left her body at the edge of a cornfield. The case drew widespread attention in St. Croix and Polk counties due to the disturbing details and the defendant’s own remarks to investigators.
Court Sentences Husband Following Deadly Domestic Incident
A St. Croix County judge sentenced 71-year-old Gordon Charles Laakso to 14 years in prison followed by six years of probation, meaning he will be well into old age if he ever leaves custody. Prosecutors said the sentence reflects the severity of the crime and the danger posed by Laakso’s actions.
He pleaded guilty to first-degree reckless homicide in September. Earlier charges included first-degree intentional homicide, domestic abuse by strangulation and suffocation, and hiding a corpse in the death of his wife, 68-year-old Mary Laakso. The couple lived on Bluff Border Road in New Richmond, a community in western Wisconsin.
Police Say Call About Disturbance Led to Discovery of Mary Laakso’s Body
Officers were dispatched around 1:45 p.m. on March 2 after receiving a report of a domestic disturbance. The 911 caller told authorities that Gordon Laakso had made troubling statements and suggested he might have harmed his wife.
When officers arrived, they found Gordon Laakso at the home but could not locate Mary. Efforts to reach her by phone also failed. Hours later, law enforcement discovered her body at the edge of a rural cornfield in Polk County, north of New Richmond.
According to investigators, the discovery helped piece together a timeline that showed Mary had likely died earlier that day before her body was moved from the home.
Suspect Claimed His Wife “Rambled” at Him for Hours
An affidavit stated that Laakso told officers his wife had “rambled” at him for nearly seven hours. He claimed she began hitting him and that “things got out of hand,” though he did not initially provide further explanation.
Detectives reported that Laakso admitted he knew she was dead, panicked, and instead of calling for medical help, transported her body to a cornfield. Afterward, he started packing a suitcase and told officers he was ready to go with them.
During a search of the home, investigators said they found bloody gloves and multiple firearms, evidence that further supported charges in the case.
“Oh, You Didn’t Find Her?”: Disturbing Response During Interview
One detail highlighted in the criminal complaint drew significant public attention. When detectives asked Gordon Laakso where his wife was, he reportedly replied, “Oh, you didn’t find her?”
When officers asked him to clarify, he stated, “She’s dead.”
Authorities described the response as both revealing and troubling, highlighting his awareness of the situation before officers discovered Mary’s remains.
Community Reaction and Statement From Officials
In a statement following the sentencing, local officials noted the emotional toll the case has taken on the community.
The press release said, “While we never wish for events of this nature to occur in our community, thanks to outstanding investigative work by the members of the New Richmond Police Department and our law enforcement partners, a strong case and prosecution was made possible and the individual responsible for Mary’s death was brought to justice.”
Officials extended condolences to Mary’s family, adding that they hoped the sentence provided some measure of closure.
Domestic Violence Remains a Critical Safety Issue
Cases like this often renew community conversations about domestic violence prevention. Experts say warning signs can include escalating arguments, isolating behavior, verbal intimidation, and previous threats. Authorities encourage anyone facing potential harm at home to reach out to local law enforcement or confidential support services.
Domestic violence advocates in Wisconsin continue to urge community members to check in on vulnerable friends, family members, and neighbors, especially older couples who may suffer in silence.
Conclusion
The sentencing marks the final chapter in a case that shocked residents of New Richmond and surrounding counties. For Mary Laakso’s loved ones, the court’s decision brings accountability, though the emotional impact remains heavy.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to community safety and domestic violence awareness in the comments below.
