A couple from Wisconsin, Paul VanDuyne and Andrea Whitaker, have been charged in a disturbing plot to murder two of VanDuyne’s former girlfriends using cyanide. Prosecutors allege that VanDuyne executed two separate incidents where he contaminated water bottles belonging to these women with the lethal poison. The initial reported attempt occurred in a Costco parking lot in Middleton, where VanDuyne is said to have broken into a woman’s car and tainted her water bottle. Although the woman was informed by bystanders that her vehicle had been tampered with, she only noticed an unusual taste in her drink. Following this, she brought the bottle to authorities, leading to a toxicological analysis that confirmed cyanide contamination.
Just weeks later, the gravity of the situation escalated, as a second woman in Rock County was hospitalized after inadvertently consuming cyanide-laced water from her own vehicle post-workout. Investigators later determined that both victims had briefly dated VanDuyne, illuminating the motive behind this shocking assassination plot. As law enforcement became alert to the growing threat, they monitored VanDuyne’s actions closely and moved swiftly to apprehend him after he allegedly attempted to contact one of the victims again.
Following VanDuyne’s arrest on a Sunday morning, it was discovered that he had reached out to Whitaker, requesting her to clear out items from his residence after he was taken into custody. Law enforcement intercepted her in the act of leaving with these belongings. A subsequent search of her phone revealed incriminating messages exchanged between the couple, discussing the nature and logistics of various poisons. The evidence pointed toward a sinister conspiracy driven by an intent to harm and silence these women.
The investigation, which involved multiple state and federal agencies, turned hazardous. At least seven investigators were hospitalized due to suspected exposure to cyanide while working the case. This highlighted the severe risks linked to their duties, as they navigated the complexities of a case involving a dangerous and lethal chemical. Assistant District Attorney William Brown disclosed that Whitaker’s online activities revealed troubling searches pertaining to cyanide, including its appearance and how it would impact water — signifying her active involvement in the plot.
The charges faced by VanDuyne and Whitaker are serious and multifaceted. They include attempted homicide, aggravated battery, reckless endangerment, and stalking, all involving the use of a deadly weapon—cyanide. The charges reflect not only the intent to murder but also the reckless endangerment posed to others who might unintendedly come into contact with the poison. VanDuyne faces additional charges in Dane County, while Whitaker is accused not only of complicity but also of attempting to aid him in evading justice.
The combined efforts of several agencies, including the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the FBI, underscore the complexities and dangers inherent in investigations involving toxic substances. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for domestic conflicts to escalate into violent and life-threatening situations, as well as the responsibilities of law enforcement to protect not only potential victims but also themselves during hazardous investigations.
