Murder of Jessie Blodgett

Jessie Blodgett was born on March 22, 1994, and grew up in Hartford, Wisconsin. She was studying music education at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and was known in her community as an accomplished musician, teacher, and participant in local theater productions.

On July 15, 2013, Blodgett was found dead in her bed by her mother. An autopsy determined that she had been strangled. There were no immediate signs of forced entry at the scene, which contributed to the shock felt within her community following her death.

Daniel Bartelt, a former classmate of Blodgett's and someone with whom she had briefly been romantically involved, was arrested and charged in connection with her murder. Investigators connected Bartelt to the crime through DNA evidence, surveillance footage, and his link to an earlier attack on another woman in Richfield, Wisconsin. According to available information, Bartelt attempted to conceal his involvement by deleting evidence from his electronic devices and providing misleading information to investigators.

At trial, prosecutors presented forensic evidence and information about Bartelt's prior history of violent behavior. He was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Following Blodgett's death, her parents became involved in efforts to raise awareness about gender-related violence. They founded The Love>Hate Project, an organization focused on promoting nonviolence, education, and community engagement aimed at preventing similar acts of violence. The organization continues to provide resources for young people intended to foster respectful relationships and to advocate on behalf of victims.

Blodgett's case has subsequently been covered by several media outlets, including Dateline NBC and other crime-focused programs, in the context of discussions about intimate partner violence and prevention.