Town of Geneva fatal shooting; 8-year-old boy dead, stepdad in custody

TOWN OF GENEVA, Wis. - FOX6 News is learning more about a young boy shot and killed on Monday, Jan. 20 in the Town of Geneva. Police say the 8-year-old's stepdad is the person responsible. 

Town of Geneva homicide

What we know:

It was early Monday when Town of Geneva police officers say the call came in. When they arrived at the home near Kale and Lincoln Drive, they found an 8-year-old boy shot. 

Fatal shooting at Town of Geneva home

The officers and other first responders performed life-saving measures. The boy was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. 

What they're saying:

"One of the hardest calls for any officer to go to. My officers, the officers that responded from all over," said Town of Geneva Police Chief Anthony Miceli.

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It was Michael Meagher who died. Loved ones say he is from La Grange Park, a suburb outside of Chicago. They describe him as a funny, happy kid who loved soccer. 

"He was up here, it sounds like for the weekend," Miceli said. 

Town of Geneva Police Chief Anthony Miceli

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Police arrested Meagher's stepfather, 52-year-old Steven Merkel. Investigators are not saying exactly how this happened. But the police chief said formal charges are expected to come through on Thursday. 

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'Unfortunately, this happened, it should never happen anywhere," Miceli said. "Been doing this for 30 years, it’s always my hardest call."

Meagher is being remembered in Wisconsin and by his school in Illinois as a bright light taken too soon. 

What you can do:

A GoFundMe account has been established for Meagher's family. 

What's next:

Merkel remains in the Walworth County Jail on $250,000 bond. He is set to appear in court on Thursday, Jan. 23.