Convicted Killer Andrew Ellmaker Dies in Prison | Wichita News

Wichita News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 18, 2026 · 1m

A convicted teen murderer, Andrew Ellmaker, died in prison at age 47 after being found unresponsive in his cell — an autopsy will determine cause. His 2004 crime shocked the nation: he stabbed and tried to dismember his social worker, Teri Zenner, 26, during a home visit, also attacking his mother who intervened. Zenner’s death spurred safety reforms for social workers and inspired a memorial garden in her honor at the Johnson County Mental Health Center. Her legacy lives on as a symbol of compassion and courage in service — while Ellmaker’s death leaves unanswered questions about his final…