A Dakota County grand jury has indicted Jacob John Audie, 36, for fatally shooting his roommate earlier this year. Audie faces one count of first-degree premeditated murder and one count of second-degree intentional murder in the death of 72-year-old Michael Maurice Schille.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on April 11 in the South St. Paul apartment that the two men shared. Audie reportedly called 911 to report that he had shot Schille. When officers arrived, they found Schille on a couch with a gunshot wound to the left side of his face.
He was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Authorities discovered an AR-style rifle, several rifle magazines, and an empty casing scattered throughout the apartment. During questioning, Audie told police that he had been Schille’s caretaker and that the two men had lived together for the past year or two, per Twin Cities NBC affiliate KARE.
Court records indicate that Audie admitted to using Schille’s own rifle in the shooting. Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the attack, though the case has raised questions about the safety of elderly residents living with personal caregivers. If convicted, Audie could face life in prison without the possibility of parole.
He remains in Dakota County Jail, and his next court appearance is scheduled for September 16. “This is a tragic case of trust being completely violated,” a Dakota County spokesperson said. “Mr. Schille relied on Mr. Audie for care, and that responsibility was horrifyingly abused.”
The community has reacted with shock to the news, with neighbors describing Schille as a quiet, kind man who enjoyed spending time with friends and family. Audie, in contrast, had kept a low profile in the building, according to neighbors who said they were unaware of any conflicts between the two men prior to the shooting.
Investigators continue to piece together the circumstances leading up to the deadly incident. “It is crucial that we fully understand how this tragedy occurred to prevent similar incidents in the future,” officials said.
The indictment marks the next step in the legal process for Audie, who now faces serious charges for the death of the man he was supposed to protect. Authorities stress that the case will proceed carefully, with all evidence presented in court as the investigation continues.
This incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of elder care safety and the importance of thorough vetting for caregivers who live with vulnerable individuals.