Vermont State Police say a homicide investigation is underway following the death of a 79-year-old man in Brownington. The victim has been identified as Alton Wheeler, who died from a stab wound to the neck, according to the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Burlington.
Police reports indicate that 43-year-old Ariana Rodger of Newport has been charged with second-degree murder, first-degree aggravated domestic assault, and violation of conditions of release. She was arrested late on March 18, 2026, and subsequently pleaded not guilty during her arraignment on March 19. Rodger has been ordered to remain in custody without bail as she awaits further court proceedings.
The incident, which occurred on Willoughby Lake Road, appears to have stemmed from a dispute among individuals who were known to each other, according to authorities. There is no ongoing threat to the public, and all parties involved have been accounted for. The investigation is still active, with the affidavit of probable cause expected to be filed with the court.
Rodger’s next court appearance is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on March 19 in the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in Newport. Charges are allegations, and details may change as the case progresses.
The Vermont brownington identified situation continues to develop. The Vermont brownington identified situation continues to develop.
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Source: Vermont State Police
About this report AI-assisted
Source: Vermont State Police ↗
How this was written: This story was drafted with AI assistance from public-record sources and published under VTScout's editorial standards. Spot something wrong? Request a correction.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges and court dates are subject to change. Reporting is based on information from law enforcement and public records, and will be updated as more details become available.
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