Kenosha, WI – A tense manhunt in Kenosha has come to an end after authorities located and arrested 41-year-old Justin L. Tercek, the “person of interest” in Monday’s southside homicide. Tercek was taken into custody late Monday night by Kenosha Police after an extensive search that lasted several hours.

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Homicide Investigation Unfolds

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On Monday, February 3, 2025, around 11:42 AM, the KPD responded to the 8500 block of 18^th Avenue after the homeowner called to report that someone possibly entered his home and that his back door was broken. The home was checked at that time and nobody was found inside. A complaint was taken and evidence was collected.

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Around 2:32 PM, the Kenosha Police Department responded back to the same home for another burglary complaint. The caller reportedly observed blood outside the back door and the door forced open. After arriving on scene, officers discovered a deceased male in the basement, with an apparent knife wound. They also located a dog with a similar wound, that passed away shortly after officers arrived..

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After securing the residence, police called in the S.W.A.T. team to clear the home. Officers utilized an interior drone—technology that Police Chief Pat Patton has championed to enhance officer safety and reduce the likelihood of armed confrontations. The drone swept the house for potential threats before a seven-member tactical team forced entry using a battering ram.

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Within 30 minutes, police declared the home clear of any immediate danger, but investigators remained on-site into the evening, collecting evidence and searching for clues that could lead them to Tercek.

The Search for Tercek

Following the discovery of the victim, police identified Tercek as a person of interest and launched an urgent manhunt. Authorities described him as a white male, approximately 6 feet tall and 225 pounds.

Kenosha Police urged residents to remain vigilant, warning that Tercek was believed to be on foot and could be armed and dangerous. Law enforcement officers canvassed the area, reviewed surveillance footage, and followed up on leads as the search intensified.

Tercek Located and Arrested

Late Monday night, Kenosha Police confirmed that Tercek had been found and taken into custody. “Justin has been located and arrested,” said Lieutenant Josh Hecker. Tercek is now in police custody as investigators work to determine his connection to the homicide.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

The arrest brings some relief to residents of the quiet southside neighborhood, where violent crimes are rare.

“It was nerve-wracking knowing someone dangerous could be nearby,” said one local resident. “I’m glad they caught him before anything else happened.”

Despite Tercek’s capture, Kenosha Police are still actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the homicide. Investigators continue to process evidence from the scene and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The victim, a 52-year-old male, will not be identified at this time out of consideration for his family.

“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family during this difficult time,” said Lieutenant Josh Hecker. “We are asking for anyone with information related to this investigation to please contact the Kenosha Police Department’s Detective Bureau at 262-605-5203,” he added

At the time of this publication, the Kenosha Police Department is confident that there are no other persons of interest. The scene will continue to have a police presence for an undetermined amount of time.

KCE will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.