Key Highlights
- Morgan Geyser, who stabbed a friend 19 times in 2014 to appease the fictional character “Slender Man,” has fled from a Wisconsin group home.
- Geyser was last seen on Saturday night in Madison, Wis., and was reported missing after cutting off her Department of Corrections monitoring bracelet.
- Her attorney has asked for Geyser to turn herself in, stating it is in her best interest.
- The stabbing incident involved another girl, Anissa Weier, who also pleaded guilty but later had her charges vacated due to mental health issues.
Morgan Geyser Fleeing from Group Home: A Case of Mental Health and Criminal Behavior
Morgan Geyser, the former “Slender Man” stabbing assailant who in 2014 targeted a friend with 19 stabs to appease the fictional internet character, has reportedly fled from her Wisconsin group home. The incident raises concerns about mental health management and the handling of individuals with complex psychological backgrounds.
Background on Geyser’s Stabbing Incident
In 2014, Geyser and another girl, Anissa Weier, lured their friend, Payton Leutner, to a secluded area in Waukesha, Wis. There, Geyser stabbed Leutner while Weier watched. The incident gained worldwide attention when Geyser and Weier claimed the stabbing was intended to please “Slender Man,” a fictional character that had garnered a cult-like following online.
Release from Mental Health Facility
Geyser’s release from the Winnebago Mental Health Institute in March 2025 marked a significant step, as she was transferred to a group home under strict monitoring. However, her departure on Saturday night raises questions about the effectiveness of her mental health management and supervision.
Departure and Monitoring Issues
The Madison Police Department reported that Geyser had cut off her Department of Corrections monitoring bracelet before leaving the group home. This action indicates a significant breach in her oversight, as such devices are designed to ensure compliance with legal conditions. Geyser was last seen around 8 p.m. on Saturday night with an adult acquaintance, according to police.
Legal and Psychological Concerns
Geyser’s attorney, Tony Cotton, has issued a statement asking her to turn herself in, emphasizing the potential benefits for her own well-being. The family of Payton Leutner expressed gratitude for the support they have received but also emphasized their ongoing commitment to ensuring their daughter’s safety.
The case highlights the complex interplay between mental health treatment and criminal behavior management. It also underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking individuals who may pose risks, even when equipped with monitoring technologies.
Expert Perspective
Mental health experts have noted that cases like Geyser’s require a multidisciplinary approach, involving not only medical professionals but also legal and social service agencies. The rapid response from local law enforcement indicates the seriousness of such incidents, even for individuals who have been released under supervision.
The situation with Morgan Geyser serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for robust mental health support systems and effective oversight mechanisms to prevent such events from occurring again.
