Fourth homicide in La Crosse this year

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This is not the first homicide to happen this year in La Crosse. In fact, some are worried over a string of violence that dates back to the start of the year.

These two latest deaths mean there have now been four homicides in La Crosse just this year.

In March, 20-year-old Sara Hougom was shot in her apartment on Division Street. She later died at the hospital.

Two suspects, Kong Vue and Pao Choua Vue, have pleaded guilty to first degree-reckless homicide for their roles in the shooting.

Police say they were trying to steal money from Hougom's apartment.

The first homicide happened just a few weeks earlier.

Thirty-five-year-old Kristen Rodgers was found dead in a north side parking lot.

The suspect, Izelia Golatt is accused of strangling her to death.

Police say Rodgers had called the suspect to buy crack cocaine.

Jury selection in that trial is schedule to start later this week.

In La Crosse, where one homicide in a year is rare, having four now in 2012 has sent shockwaves through the community. And it's not just the public that's concerned.

"The community should be aware of their surroundings. If someone sees something suspicious, if you see someone outside your business, outside your home, that is just out of place, take extra steps. Go ahead and lock your door. Go ahead and look to see what's going on. Don't just ignore something that is out of place," said Captain Robert Lawrence.

Police have also reported an uptick in other crime this year, many of it linked to a growing drug problem in the city.

  • Copyright 2012 by WKBT News8000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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