In a heartbreaking incident in Waukesha, Wisconsin, a 17-year-old boy, Ronnie Fuentez, has been charged with murder after his uncle, who was also his roommate, died from injuries sustained during a violent altercation.
The incident began with a disagreement about a sleepover, and ended in tragedy with the victim suffering fatal brain injuries.
The Fight That Led to Tragedy
On February 1, 2025, a domestic dispute between Fuentez and his uncle escalated into violence. According to a criminal complaint, the victim, who had been living with Fuentez for about four years, refused to allow the teenager’s friend to stay overnight.
The argument quickly turned physical. When Fuentez was told to send his friend home, he became enraged and began yelling. The situation worsened when the teenager punched his uncle in the head, and the uncle, trying to defend himself, threw a similar punch.
Despite the uncle’s attempts to shield himself, Fuentez allegedly continued to hit him while calling him offensive names.
After the fight, Fuentez left the house, but returned the next morning. It’s unclear what happened to the friend who was supposed to stay over. The victim, despite being in pain, did not immediately seek medical attention. He did not call the police or go to the hospital for several days.
A Delay in Seeking Help
Although the victim felt a migraine two days after the fight, he initially managed it with over-the-counter medication. However, by February 5, the condition worsened. While speaking to his mother on the phone, the victim began to have trouble speaking and struggled to form complete sentences.
Fearing he was having a stroke, his mother rushed to his side and took him to the hospital. Medical staff diagnosed him with an internal brain bleed, and he was immediately placed in the intensive care unit.
Sadly, the victim did not survive, passing away in late May. The delay in seeking medical help, along with the severity of the injuries, contributed to his tragic death.
The Teenager’s Past and Additional Charges
At the time of the attack, Fuentez was already out on bond for a separate, unrelated crime. He now faces additional charges, including misdemeanor bail jumping for violating the conditions of his previous release. His original charge of battery has been upgraded to murder due to the victim’s death.
Fuentez is scheduled to appear in Waukesha County court soon. This tragic event highlights the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of addressing conflicts peacefully before they escalate into violence.
