Triple Quarry Incident Sparks Security Concerns in Wisconsin Community

A Wisconsin man has been convicted in a shocking triple murder case at a quarry, bringing closure to a community shaken by the brutal crime.

At a Glance

Nya Thao, 37, found guilty of murdering three men near a La Crosse quarry in 2021
Conviction includes three counts of intentional first-degree homicide and illegal firearm possession
Second trial resulted in conviction after first ended in hung jury
Sentencing scheduled for October 14, facing potential life imprisonment
Case highlights community concerns over safety and justice system effectiveness

Triple Murder Conviction Shakes Wisconsin Community

In a case that has gripped the state of Wisconsin, 37-year-old Nya Thao has been found guilty of a heinous triple murder that occurred near a quarry in La Crosse County. The conviction comes after a second trial, as the first ended in a hung jury, underscoring the complexity and gravity of the case.

Thao was convicted on three counts of intentional first-degree homicide and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The victims, Peng Lor, Nemo Yang, and Trevor Maloney, were found dead outside the entrance of a quarry about 14 miles northeast of La Crosse in July 2021. This brutal act of violence has left the community reeling and searching for answers.

Details of the Crime Emerge

Prosecutors revealed that Thao acted in concert with Khamthaneth Rattanasack, who believed one of the victims had stolen $600 from him. According to witness testimony, Rattanasack ordered the victims to kneel before handing Thao the gun used in the shootings. This chilling detail paints a picture of a premeditated and cold-blooded execution.

“La Crosse County Sheriff John Siegel said Tuesday’s verdict ‘closes the door on a horrific crime not only perpetrated on 3 individuals, but our entire community.'” https://apnews.com/article/triple-killing-quarry-wisconsin-621211756792ab9ae946dede2ceaddb0

Rattanasack, also known as “Black,” had previously pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree intentional homicide as part of a plea deal and was sentenced to life in prison in January. This plea deal likely played a crucial role in securing Thao’s conviction, as it provided prosecutors with valuable testimony and evidence.

Community Impact and Legal Proceedings

The impact of this crime on the La Crosse community cannot be overstated. Sheriff John Siegel’s statement reflects the collective relief and hope for healing that the verdict brings. Judge Elliot Levine, who presided over the case, revoked Thao’s bond pending sentencing and thanked the jury for their service in this difficult trial.

Thao’s defense team argued that Rattanasack was solely responsible for the murders and that Thao was unaware of the plan to kill. However, the prosecution successfully convinced the jury that Thao and Rattanasack worked together to execute the brutal murders. The conviction sends a strong message about the consequences of such heinous acts and the effectiveness of the justice system in holding perpetrators accountable.

As the community begins to process the outcome of this trial, questions about public safety and the factors that led to this tragedy remain. The case has prompted discussions about enhancing security measures and addressing underlying issues that may contribute to violent crime in the area.

Looking Ahead

With Thao’s sentencing scheduled for October 14, the focus now turns to the potential punishment he faces. Given the severity of the crimes and the multiple convictions, it is likely that Thao will face a substantial prison sentence, possibly life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

As this chapter in La Crosse County’s history comes to a close, the community must now grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy. The hope is that this conviction will bring some measure of closure to the victims’ families and serve as a deterrent to future acts of violence. The challenge now lies in healing the wounds inflicted by this crime and working towards a safer, more secure future for all residents of La Crosse County and beyond.