In a tragic incident that has shaken the community of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, a man is accused of intentionally mowing down a mother and her dog in a targeted attack reportedly linked to a “sensitive” matter involving children. Prosecutors allege that the suspect, 49-year-old Jeffrey Endres, was seeking vigilante justice when he drove his car into the family during an evening walk.

The Fatal Attack

On the evening of April 28, 2025, Dr. Kami Hansen, a well-known chiropractor and mother of three, was walking with her husband, one of their sons, and their family dog in their quiet neighborhood. According to eyewitnesses, a vehicle driven by Endres accelerated toward the family, striking them with full force.

Dr. Hansen and the family dog were killed at the scene. Her husband sustained minor injuries, while their child suffered a concussion and underwent emergency surgery.

“This was not an accident. This was deliberate,” Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne stated in a press briefing. “The defendant intentionally targeted this family.”

A Grievance Turned Deadly

The motive behind the attack, according to prosecutors, was a deeply personal grievance. Investigators believe Endres was reacting to an alleged incident involving his child and one of Dr. Hansen’s children. While specific details have not been publicly disclosed, the case involves what officials describe as a “sensitive crime” between the minors.

Authorities emphasized that the justice system had already been engaged in investigating the original allegation. However, Endres allegedly took matters into his own hands.

“This is precisely why we urge citizens not to take justice into their own hands,” Ozanne said. “The rule of law exists to ensure a fair and impartial process for all parties.”

Charges and Arrest

Jeffrey Endres was arrested shortly after the incident. He was charged with:

• First-degree intentional homicide
• Two counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide
• Mistreatment of animals causing death

At his first court appearance, Endres’ bail was set at $1 million. The court ordered that he have no contact with the Hansen family and restricted him from entering the Cottage Grove area if released on bail.

You can learn more about criminal proceedings in Wisconsin via the Wisconsin Court System.

Death in Custody

In a sudden turn of events, Endres was found dead in his jail cell on May 6, 2025. Authorities at Dane County Jail confirmed that he was discovered unresponsive during routine checks. Medical staff attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

An autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death. As of now, there is no indication of foul play, but the incident is under internal investigation. Dane County Jail operations are managed by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, which has promised transparency in the review process.

Community in Mourning

The Cottage Grove community has expressed shock and heartbreak over the senseless tragedy. Friends and neighbors remember Dr. Hansen as a devoted mother and a compassionate healthcare provider.

“She was the kind of person who radiated kindness,” one neighbor said. “This doesn’t just feel like a loss for her family—it’s a loss for all of us.”

A memorial vigil was held in Dr. Hansen’s honor, with community members calling for peace and patience with the judicial process in cases involving minors.

The Larger Implications

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of vigilantism. Even when grievances are personal and emotionally charged, the justice system is the only appropriate avenue for resolution.

Cases involving juveniles are especially sensitive and require thorough, confidential handling by professionals. More about how Wisconsin handles crimes involving minors can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website.

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