Aric L. Way, a resident of Glendale, Wisconsin, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of release on supervision for the murder of his mother in Dodgeville on July 19, 2021. The Wisconsin Department of Justice made the announcement earlier today, emphasizing the severity of the crime. Attorney General Josh Kaul expressed gratitude towards those involved in ensuring that the defendant faces the consequences for his actions.
The victim was discovered deceased in her Dodgeville home, with an autopsy revealing carbon monoxide poisoning as a contributing factor to her death. The investigation uncovered that the victim had recently agreed to sell the family farm, which was set to be inherited by Way's son and co-defendant, Philip G. Schmidt-Way. Curiously, there were no apparent sources to explain the elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the house. The trial presented evidence that pointed to Way purchasing products known to react together and produce carbon monoxide. Additionally, surveillance footage captured Schmidt-Way's vehicle at the victim's residence on the night of her death.
Schmidt-Way has also been found guilty of this heinous crime. His sentencing is scheduled for March 5, 2024.
The investigation into this case was a collaborative effort involving several law enforcement agencies and organizations, including the Iowa County Sheriff’s Office, DCI, Wisconsin State Crime Lab, Dodgeville EMS, Dodgeville Fire, Northern Colorado Drug Task Force, Larimer County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado, UW Hospital, Glendale Police Department, Eastern District of Wisconsin U.S. Marshals Service, Wisconsin State Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms. Victim services are being provided by the Iowa County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant Attorneys General Nathaniel Adamson and Edward Minser were responsible for prosecuting the case.
For further details, the full criminal complaint can be obtained upon request.