Andrew James Wimsatt, a 62-year-old engineer from Texas, was fatally stabbed in a park in Round Rock, according to authorities. The incident, described as a random attack, took place on September 7 as Wimsatt was resting on a park bench after visiting his mother at a nearby nursing home.
The Williamson County deputies have arrested Benedict Chinedu Ogbodiegwu, a 26-year-old local resident, on charges of murder and theft. A surveillance camera recorded the attack, showing a man, identified as Ogbodiegwu, approaching Wimsatt from behind and repeatedly stabbing him in the neck.
Despite efforts to fend off Ogbodiegwu, Wimsatt was unable to stop the assault. After the attack, Ogbodiegwu reportedly wiped the blood from his knife onto his shirt and left the scene.
According to investigators, the suspect’s steps have been retraced leading to the recovery of evidence, including prints and bloody clothing, as well as the suspected murder weapon.
Wimsatt had a Ph.D. in civil engineering and worked part-time at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute even after retiring. He had connections with several Fox News personalities and was involved as an executive producer in the Penn Jillette horror/comedy “Director’s Cut.” He was known for sharing television clips with members of the “Gutfeld!” show and befriended several hosts.
Fox News contributor Kat Timpf described Wimsatt as a generous and supportive fan who turned into a friend. They regularly spoke over the years, and Wimsatt consistently provided her with encouragement.
In a statement, host Greg Gutfeld expressed shock over the violence of the crime. Tyrus, who knew Wimsatt from standup shows, described him as a positive and kind man who cared deeply for his mother.
Wimsatt was pronounced dead at the scene after a witness discovered him on the ground and called 911. His attacker, Ogbodiegwu, has a criminal record dating back to 2017, with prior arrests for theft and carrying fake identification.
Ogbodiegwu’s latest release from jail was on June 9 of this year, only to be arrested again for Wimsatt’s murder. His claim of a twin brother during interrogation failed to hold up against video evidence. He is held on $1 million bond and awaits a pre-indictment docket call on October 8.
As Greg Gutfeld remarked on the tragedy, he emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible for allowing the attacker to remain free.