Newlyweds Fatally Shot In Bar Robbery, Arrest Made In Wisconsin
Police apprehend a 51-year-old suspect in the shooting death of a newlywed couple at a sports bar, where the bride was employed.
On Friday, the Elkhorn Police Department issued a statement revealing the arrest of Thomas Allen Routt Jr. The suspect was taken into custody on multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree intentional homicide using a dangerous weapon, one count of attempted first-degree intentional homicide with a dangerous weapon, armed robbery, and felon in possession of a firearm. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in the shooting deaths of newlyweds Emerson Weingart and Gina Weingart.
According to a police department statement, on Feb. 1, Routt Jr. entered Sports Page Barr, engaging in gaming machines. An eyewitness recounted that, at one point, only the witness, Routt, and Emerson and Gina Weingart were present. Allegedly, Routt brandished a handgun, directed it at Gina, and commanded everyone not to move. The eyewitness, responding instinctively, rose from their barstool, but Routt purportedly aimed the gun at them, compelling them to sit back down.
In a harrowing incident, Routt allegedly shot Gina, prompting the witness to flee and call 911 for assistance. Notably, Routt, previously on parole for arson, was apprehended on Feb. 4.
Routt purportedly confessed to investigators, acknowledging that he shot the newlyweds and discharged his firearm at the fleeing witness. He is said to have "indicated that his motive was robbery" during which he pilfered an estimated $120 to $140 from the bar's cash drawer. The subsequent morning, he reportedly discarded his 9mm handgun and ammunition in a trash can at a Handi-Mart. Police successfully recovered the firearm.
In June 2023, Gina and Emerson Weingart exchanged vows, beginning their journey together.
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Following the tragic incident, Sports Page Barr owner Jordan Barr shared on Facebook: "When I eventually offered Gina a part-time job, they were already a part of the family. Their lives were just beginning, and I believe I speak for our entire Sports Page family by saying we are absolutely devastated by what happened. It is a despicable act of violence that has shaken all of us to our core."
Routt is currently in custody at Walworth County Jail. He is being held on a $2 million bond.
