NEW RICHMOND, WI — Authorities in New Richmond are investigating a suspected homicide after a welfare check led to the discovery of 68-year-old Mary Laakso’s body in rural Polk County, with her husband, Gordon Laakso, now in custody.
PRESS RELEASE
On Sunday, March 2, 2025 at approximately 1:45 PM the New Richmond Police Department received a call for a possible domestic disturbance/welfare check of 68-year-old Mary Laakso. The 911 caller indicated that Mary’s husband, 70-year-old Gordon Laakso, made statements that led them to believe Mary may have been harmed earlier in the day.
Upon arrival at the residence in the 1300 block of Bluff Border Road in New Richmond, law enforcement officers were able to locate Gordon, however, they could not locate Mary at the residence or reach her by phone.
The investigation later led to a rural area in Polk County, where Mary was found deceased at approximately 4:00 PM.
On March 3, 2025 the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office provisional report indicated the manner of death to be homicide.
The New Richmond Police Department will continue to actively investigate this incident.
Thank you to the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Department and the Polk County Sheriff’s Department for their assistance in this investigation. Gordon Laakso is being held in the St. Croix County Jail.
-- Per New Richmond Police Department
Last Update: Mar 03, 2025 3:11 pm CST
