DUBUQUE, Iowa- A man in Iowa has been arrested for murder after allegedly killing his mother whom he accused of practicing witchcraft. When asked questions, the man reportedly laughed during his bond hearing.
Tyler James Dazey, a 28-year-old white male, is facing charges of first-degree murder. He was charged in the Iowa District Court of Dubuque County on Thursday, January 18, 2024.
At 8:50 a.m. on Thursday, Dubuque Police responded to a report of a “suspicious” death in the 1600 block of Avoca Street. Upon arrival, they discovered the lifeless body of a 46-year-old woman in the residence.
The victim was identified as Jennifer Ann Dazey, Tyler J. Dazey’s mother. Her body was discovered in her bedroom by the police with court documents revealing “numerous” and “significant” lacerations to her face, neck, and head. Additionally, some of her fingers had been severed from her hand.
Reports say that Police discovered Tyler J. Dazey lying naked in his room. According to officers, the suspect was “not overly responsive.” In the living room of the residence, police found the family dog dead from head injuries on the sofa. Tyler J. Dazey now faces an additional charge of Animal Abuse Causing Serious Injury or Death.
Tyler James Dazey (Mug shot: Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office)
Following the issuance of a search warrant, police found a tactical tomahawk in a bathroom of the residence and its sheath on the dining room table. A tactical tomahawk is a versatile hand tool that combines elements of a traditional tomahawk with modern features suitable for survival situations. It typically has a sharp axe blade on one side for cutting and chopping, while the opposite side may feature a spike or other tools. The handle often incorporates additional functions, such as a pry bar, hammerhead, or a grip designed for various tasks.
Tactical tomahawks are used by military personnel, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts for a range of peaceful purposes, including chopping, cutting, and other utility tasks. They are designed to be durable, portable, and multi-functional, making them suitable for a variety of situations where a versatile cutting and chopping tool is needed.
Dubuque Police Department Lt. Brendan Welsh said the tomahawk was taken into evidence for processing at the state crime lab. Other evidence was also collected and sent for crime lab review.
“Investigators are still processing evidence found at the scene and sending items for further testing,” Welsh said.
Jennifer Dazey’s official cause of death cannot be released until after the completion of an autopsy by the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner.
Tyler J. Dazey was taken to hospital and upon his discharge, officers questioned him. According to documents, he claimed ownership of the tomahawk and asserted that his mother, in her bed, was practicing witchcraft against him for years.
No evidence has been provided that Jennifer Dazey practiced witchcraft.
When questioned about his mother’s injuries, Tyler remained silent and invoked his Miranda Rights.
Tyler James Dazey appeared in court on Friday for his bond hearing. He laughed during the hearing and said it was “always a pleasure” to Iowa District Associate Judge Mark Hostager. Tyler James Dazey’s bond was set at $2 million payable in cash only. He remains at the Dubuque County Jail according to inmate records and is scheduled to appear in court again on January 29, 2024.
Iowa does not have the death penalty. The state abolished capital punishment in 1965. First Degree Murder is a Class A Felony which – except for juvenile defendants – carries a term of life in prison.
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