Rapids police identify victims in ongoing investigation

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wisconsin Rapids Police Department continues its investigation into two deaths that occurred on Oct. 31 in that city.

Officers initially responded to the emergency room at Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital, a 34-year-old man, later identified as Antoni R. Quinones of Wisconsin Rapids, had been transported with life-threatening injuries.

Despite lifesaving efforts, Quinones was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

An autopsy was scheduled for Nov. 3 in Madison, to determine the exact cause of death.

“Through witness interviews, detectives determined that Quinones was reportedly injured earlier on Oct. 30, while inside a residence in the 1400 block of 21st Avenue South, Wisconsin Rapids, before being transported by a private citizen to the hospital,” a release from Wisconsin Rapids Police Chief Daniel Hostens stated.

“While investigating at Aspirus Hospital, officers were dispatched to a disturbance in the 500 block of 11th Street South, Wisconsin Rapids. Upon arrival, they located a 56-year-old male, identified as Randall E. Harris Sr., suffering from multiple life-threatening injuries. Mr. Harris was pronounced deceased at the scene.”

An autopsy for Harris was also scheduled for Nov. 3.

“The investigation identified Randall E. Harris Jr., age 34, and son of the deceased, as a suspect in the death of Randall E. Harris Sr. Law enforcement officers located and took Harris Jr. into custody without incident. He is held at the Wood County Jail pending charges related to the incident on 11th Street South,” Hostens added.

“Currently, detectives have found no evidence connecting these two incidents. Both are being investigated separately.

“The residence on 21st Avenue South and the address on 11th Street South remain active crime scenes and are under law enforcement security. Both incidents appear to be isolated, and there is no known threat to the community.

"I want to praise the swift and professional response by our Wisconsin Rapids Police officers and detectives, as well as the dedication and support provided by the Wood County Sheriff's Department and Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation. Their commitment and collaboration have been instrumental in advancing these ongoing investigations."