A 27-year-old Wisconsin man has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide after allegedly stabbing his mother dozens of times in Eau Claire.
Michael J. Hurlburt reportedly called 911 around 8 p.m. on Friday to confess to killing his mother, Lisa M. Bragg-Hurlburt, 56. According to the arrest affidavit, Hurlburt told dispatchers, “I killed her,” and said he found a kitchen knife and stabbed her about 40 times.
Details of the Alleged Murder
Police said officers responded to the Half Moon Lake Apartments, where Bragg-Hurlburt was found lying in a pool of blood. She was pronounced dead at the scene, and a bloody kitchen knife was located approximately six feet from her body.
Hurlburt allegedly admitted to police that he had been planning the attack since earlier that afternoon. He reportedly said he wanted a final meal at Dairy Queen before carrying out the stabbing.
According to the affidavit, Hurlburt told authorities that he had thought about killing his mother in the past because she had been “mean to him” during his childhood. He claimed he stabbed her to “make a statement” to the rest of the family.
Suspect Describes Delusions and Motive
During his 911 call and subsequent police interview, Hurlburt allegedly described being “gang stalked by the U.S. Government and the Chinese,” which he said contributed to his actions.
He also claimed that his mother “kind of made me crazy in the first place” and that the alleged stalking forced him into conflict with her.
Medical Examiner Confirms Severity of Attack
The Eau Claire County medical examiner determined that Bragg-Hurlburt suffered 44 stab wounds, primarily to her neck and upper back.
Police officials emphasized the extreme violence of the alleged attack while noting that the investigation into Hurlburt’s mental state is ongoing.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Hurlburt was taken into custody and transported to Eau Claire County Jail, where he remains held on a $1 million bond.
His next court appearance is scheduled for July 6. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder and any potential contributing factors.
