Wed Dec 31 08:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text:

A patient, Jonathan Winch, 35, has been charged with second-degree murder after allegedly fatally assaulting a security guard, Andrea Merrell, 43, at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, Minnesota, on Christmas. Winch, who was on a medical hold, fled the emergency department and attacked Merrell. She died two days later from traumatic head injuries. Winch was arrested after struggling with police and faces a potential 40-year sentence. Merrell is remembered as dedicated to public service.

Here’s a rewrite as a news article:

Minnesota Hospital Patient Charged with Murder in Security Guard’s Christmas Day Death

WYOMING, MN – Jonathan Winch, 35, is facing a second-degree murder charge after allegedly assaulting and killing a security guard at M Health Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, Minnesota, on Christmas Day. Andrea Merrell, 43, a valued member of the hospital’s security team, died two days after the attack from severe head trauma.

According to a criminal complaint, Winch, who was under a medical hold, fled the hospital’s emergency department. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Winch attacking Merrell. First responders found Merrell with agonal breathing and a weak pulse. She was transported to Regions Hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

Police apprehended Winch as he attempted to enter a hospital security vehicle. He allegedly jumped onto the windshield of a responding officer’s squad car. After being removed, Winch resisted arrest, requiring officers to use a Taser. He reportedly stated, “I didn’t mean to hurt her” during the struggle.

Winch now faces a maximum sentence of 40 years if convicted of second-degree murder.

“She was called to public service,” said David Velasquez, a friend of Merrell. “To have it cut short because she was giving herself to a greater cause is just kind of a true testament to her.”

Fairview has released a statement calling Merrell “a valued member of our security team” and stating that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.

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