In a case that has gripped Wisconsin and drawn national attention, the first five days of trial have revealed horrifying and heartbreaking details surrounding the 2024 murder of 19-year-old Sade Robinson. The man accused of her brutal killing and dismemberment, 34-year-old Maxwell Anderson, is now on trial — and the evidence laid out so far paints a chilling picture of the hours leading up to and following Sade’s disappearance.
Sade, remembered as a bright, caring, and ambitious young woman, had gone on a first date with Anderson in early April 2024. What began as a night out turned into a tragedy that would leave her family and community searching for answers — and justice.
DAY 1: A Gruesome Discovery Sets the Tone
Prosecutors opened the case by outlining the evidence that led investigators to Maxwell Anderson, emphasizing digital data, location history, and physical evidence. They allege Anderson murdered Sade after their first date.
A witness, Osyrus Terrell, testified to discovering what appeared to be a severed leg at a lakeside park — initially mistaking it for a mannequin. That leg was later confirmed to belong to Sade.
Her friends and coworkers, alarmed when she failed to show up for work, were among the first to report her missing. The timeline began to form: Sade had been at Anderson’s home the night she disappeared.
DAY 2: Digital Breadcrumbs & Disturbing Surveillance
The court heard emotional testimony from Evelyn Geurts, a coworker, and Alana Fisher, a close friend, both of whom shared how Sade frequently shared her phone’s location with trusted friends for safety. That location data showed her final digital signal was at Warnimont Park at 4:35 a.m. — the same park where her leg was later found.
Jurors were shown surveillance footage of Sade’s Honda Civic being set on fire, with a person seen walking away carrying a backpack just before first responders arrived. Investigators say petroleum-based accelerants were used to ignite the vehicle.
DAY 3: Human Remains Spread Across the City
Bus surveillance placed Anderson in the same area where Sade’s burned car was located. The court also heard that human remains were found scattered at various locations — near train tracks, parks, and a beach.
In a particularly emotional moment, Sade’s family shared how they found a blanket with her photo near one of the disposal sites. Police also confirmed the discovery of a torso and an arm, among other remains — grim evidence of the horrifying nature of her death.
DAY 4: Inside the Home of Horror
Anderson’s own tenant testified, revealing they had heard strange noises around dawn — shortly before the police raided the residence.
The medical examiner delivered chilling testimony, stating there were no signs of life when Sade’s body was dismembered — suggesting she had already died prior to the dismemberment.
A search of Anderson’s home turned up over 50 knives, bloody clothing, and tools, further deepening the horror and giving jurors a view into the disturbing evidence found within.
DAY 5: The Final Hours of Sade’s Life
Jurors watched surveillance footage of Sade and Anderson at two bars, where they were seen talking, laughing — seemingly enjoying their night. That would be the last time Sade was seen alive in public.
Further digital tracking confirmed that her car was later parked at Anderson’s house. Investigators recovered bloody gloves and personal items belonging to Sade from various outdoor locations.
Clothing found in Anderson’s home matched the outfit he wore in the bar footage, strengthening the connection between the suspect and the final hours of Sade’s known movements.
A Family’s Fight for Justice
As the trial continues, the courtroom has remained emotionally charged — with Sade’s loved ones watching closely as prosecutors piece together the final moments of her life. Each testimony and piece of evidence adds another layer to a case that is as heartbreaking as it is horrifying.
Sade Robinson’s story has galvanized the community, with many advocating for improved safety awareness, especially among young women. Her life, full of promise and potential, was stolen far too soon.
The trial against Maxwell Anderson is expected to continue in the coming weeks, as prosecutors present further evidence and the defense begins its case.
Sade’s name will not be forgotten — and her family, community, and supporters continue to demand justice in her memory.Â
