Decorah man charged with murder in death of 74-year-old father

A $1 million cash-only bond has been set for a Decorah man accused of fatally shooting his father, 74-year-old Lawrence Paul Whittle.

Aaron Gary Whittle, 43, is charged with first-degree murder after he told police he fatally shot Lawrence Whittle, according to an arrest affidavit.

The affidavit states Aaron Whittle shot Lawrence Whittle on Thursday, but a Facebook post from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office says Lawrence Whittle was last heard from around 8 a.m. Friday.

According to the Facebook post, Lawrence Whittle was reported missing Saturday. His car was found at Moe Park, 1278 Old Stage Rd. in rural Winneshiek County, which led to an extensive search of that area.

Aaron Whittle was arrested Monday. He had a first appearance hearing Monday where the $1 million bond was set. He is being held in the Winneshiek County Jail.

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