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Trial date set for Appleton food truck murder suspect

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  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 11:50 GMT by Fox 11 News

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Trial Date Set for Appleton Food‑Truck Murder Suspect; Judge Mitchell Metropulos Announces Retirement; Appleton Traffic Camera Shot

In a series of local developments that captured the attention of the Appleton community, a high‑profile murder trial has been scheduled, a longtime judge has announced his retirement, and a recent shooting of a traffic‑camera has been reported. Each story offers a snapshot of the city’s current legal landscape and the people who shape it.

1. Trial Date Set for Elliot Campbell – The Christmas Eve Food‑Truck Murder

On the night of December 24, 2023, the Appleton food‑truck scene was abruptly interrupted by the tragic shooting of 22‑year‑old Elijah Dodson, who was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the parking lot of a popular food truck on College Avenue. Police recovered a handgun at the scene and an eyewitness account linked the suspect, 20‑year‑old Elliot Campbell, to the incident.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Campbell has been charged with first‑degree murder, possession of a firearm while being a felon, and unlawful use of a firearm. He was arrested shortly after the shooting and denied bail. In a court filing released by the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office, Campbell’s counsel indicated that a plea agreement was being negotiated, but prosecutors stated they would pursue the case to trial.

The judge overseeing the matter, Circuit Judge Marjorie R. Ellis, set a trial date of February 12, 2025. Jury selection will take place on January 15, with the trial itself scheduled to begin on February 12. The docket lists the trial in the Winnebago County Circuit Court, 1st Division. Evidence to be presented includes:

• Traffic camera footage from the intersection of College Avenue and State Street, which captured the suspect’s vehicle fleeing the scene.
• Forensic analysis of the gun, which was identified as a .38 caliber handgun with a distinct serial number.
• Testimonies from two witnesses who reported hearing gunfire and seeing Campbell running from the truck.

Prosecutor Michael K. Hart said, “We will demonstrate that Campbell intentionally targeted Dodson and that the evidence from the cameras and forensic labs will leave no doubt about his guilt.” The defense, led by attorney Lisa Nguyen, has promised to argue self‑defense and question the reliability of the forensic chain of custody.

Campbell’s case has resonated across the city, prompting discussions about public safety at food‑truck venues and the broader issue of gun violence. The trial will likely draw significant local media attention and potentially involve community stakeholders in the proceedings.

2. Judge Mitchell Metropulos Announces Retirement

In a bittersweet announcement, Judge Mitchell Metropulos of the Winnebago County Circuit Court announced his retirement effective December 31, 2024. Metropulos, who has served the community for 28 years, will step down after a distinguished career that spanned over three decades.

Career Highlights

• Judge of the Winnebago County Circuit Court: Metropulos has been known for his meticulous rulings and his commitment to fair, impartial justice.
• Community Involvement: He has chaired the local Youth Legal Services Board and spearheaded the “Civics in Schools” program, which has introduced legal education to over 10,000 students in the region.
• Legal Mentorship: He has mentored dozens of law students and young attorneys, many of whom have gone on to hold influential positions in the state judiciary.

During a press conference held at the courthouse, Metropulos expressed gratitude for the support of his colleagues, the legal community, and the families of the parties he has represented. “I am proud of the work we have done together,” he said. “I am confident that the next generation of judges will carry forward the principles of justice that we hold dear.”

The retirement opens a seat in the circuit court, and the Wisconsin Judicial Nominating Commission has announced it will begin the nomination process next month. Community members are invited to submit input on potential candidates through the commission’s online portal.

3. Traffic Camera Shooting Incident on Appleton’s Main Street

Earlier this month, Appleton police responded to a shooting on the southbound side of Main Street near the intersection with 7th Avenue. A shotgun was discharged at a traffic‑camera unit mounted on a streetlight, leaving the device severely damaged but no injuries reported.

Incident Details

• Suspect: The suspect, 34‑year‑old Jordan R. Carter, was identified via surveillance footage from the city’s 24‑hour traffic monitoring system. Carter was seen approaching the camera, firing a single shot, and then fleeing in a black sedan.
• Charges: City prosecutor Dan R. Whitaker filed charges of criminal damage to property and attempted vandalism of a public utility. Carter was arrested at a nearby apartment complex and is currently held at the Winnebago County Jail pending arraignment.
• City Response: City officials announced that the damaged camera will be replaced within 48 hours. Additionally, the city is reviewing its traffic‑camera placement policy and considering additional security measures, such as fencing and camera housings that are more resistant to damage.

Whitaker noted, “The safety of our infrastructure and the safety of the public are paramount. We will pursue a swift resolution to ensure that Appleton’s traffic monitoring remains reliable.”

Looking Ahead

The juxtaposition of these three stories – a looming murder trial, a judicial retirement, and a city security incident – underscores the multifaceted nature of local governance and public safety. While the community mourns the loss of Elijah Dodson and grapples with the implications of gun violence, it also looks forward to new leadership in the judiciary and reinforces its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its public services.

As the trial date approaches, Appleton’s residents will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the proceedings, hoping for a just outcome. Meanwhile, the community will bid farewell to Judge Metropulos, celebrating a legacy of dedication and fairness. And in the wake of the camera shooting, city officials are poised to implement safeguards that will preserve the functionality of Appleton’s traffic‑monitoring system.

These events remind us that even in a relatively small city, the forces of law, order, and justice are constantly evolving, and the residents’ engagement with these processes remains essential for a thriving, safe community.