Murder Suspect Fled To Illinois And Iowa

The 62-year-old Kenosha man standing trial for the murder of Berit Beck tried to run as law enforcement was strengthening its case against him. Several witnesses testified Thursday that they were concerned after Dennis Brantner’s brother Michael got a call in March of 2014 from Branter’s employer that he didn’t show up to work. Michael Brantner testified when he did get a hold of him by phone, Dennis told him he was in Iowa and said he was in a lot of trouble. Diane Epping who lived with Dennis Brantner at the time read from text messages she sent him after Michael Brantner told her Dennis had missed work. In one exchange she said, “Why don’t you answer I know your hurting, but so are we.” He replied in a text, “I just don’t know what to say. I’m in shock. I’m freaking out!”  On cross examination Brantner’s lawyer, Craig Powell, asked her if she though he ran because police were accusing him of murder. She said yes. The murder trial in Fond du Lac County Court continues today.