The Dark Side of Love: The Tragic Case of Alex Woodworth
8/7/20242 min read


Welcome back, Crude Twins fam! We’re so glad you’re here, and if you're new, welcome! We're happy to have you join us today as we delve into one of our local true crime stories – a case that shook Wisconsin to its core. This is the tragic story of Alex Woodworth and the inscrutable motives behind his untimely demise.
The Lives of Erza McCandless and Alex Woodworth
Erza McCandless, originally born as Monica in Stanley, Wisconsin, made several notable changes in her life, including legally changing her name to Erza. After spending her early years in Stanley, she eventually moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
In August 2017, Erza began living with her then-boyfriend, Jason Mengel. However, her life took a complicated turn when she started a secret relationship with Alex Woodworth, an acquaintance from Eau Claire. As the tangled web of relationships developed, Erza found herself in the spotlight of suspicion following the tragic death of Alex.
The Climactic Incident
Despite moving back to her mother's house in Stanley for a brief period, Erza's relationship with Jason ended, and she continued her clandestine relationship with Alex. The tension among all parties involved eventually led to a startling and tragic event. In the spring of 2018, following a heated confrontation, Alex Woodworth was found murdered. This act shook the local community and raised several questions about the circumstances that led to such a devastating loss.
Unraveling the Mystery
The ensuing investigation uncovered a plethora of evidence that shed light on the emotional and psychological complexities of Erza's life. Friends and acquaintances painted a conflicting picture of Erza, describing her as both troubled and charismatic. As investigators delved deeper, they uncovered the series of events and interactions that culminated in Alex's death.
Throughout the trial, numerous facets of Erza’s life and interactions with both Jason and Alex were scrutinized closely. The prosecution argued that her actions were premeditated, highlighting her troubled past and the complex dynamics of her relationships. Meanwhile, the defense sought to portray Erza as a victim of emotional turmoil, pushed to the brink by circumstances beyond her control.
The Verdict and Aftermath
The case of Alex Woodworth continues to resonate deeply within the Wisconsin community, a poignant reminder of the dark side of tumultuous relationships and the dire consequences they can precipitate. In the end, Erza McCandless was convicted, but the story remains a somber testament to the fragile nature of human connections and the unforeseen tragedies they can harbor.
Thank you for joining us as we revisited this perplexing case. Stay tuned for more in-depth explorations of local true crime stories, and as always, stay safe. We’ll see you in the next episode, Crude Twins fam! If this story gripped your curiosity, make sure to share your thoughts in the comments below.