A woman from Wisconsin has entered a plea of not guilty in response to allegations that she fatally shot the father of her children twice in the face, authorities reported on Monday.

Dakota Bilderback, aged 29, is charged with first-degree intentional homicide in connection with the death of 37-year-old Michael Lee. According to a statement posted by the Eau Claire Police Department on Facebook, officers responded to an emergency call regarding a shooting on August 30 at a residence on Sunset Drive. Upon arrival, they discovered Lee deceased from two gunshot wounds and subsequently detained Bilderback after conducting an interview with her.

As detailed in a criminal complaint obtained by NBC affiliate WEAU, Bilderback initially dialed 911 to report an injury, later clarifying that Lee had been shot. When the dispatcher inquired about the victim, she allegedly stated, “I had to shoot my children’s father. To protect my children.”

Following her Miranda rights, Bilderback revealed to the police that she had a firearm on her because she was experiencing suicidal thoughts but also sought to intimidate Lee. She reportedly sent her children upstairs to allow for a private conversation with Lee. She claimed she placed the gun to her own head, expecting Lee to assist her in pulling the trigger. However, she allegedly ended up shooting Lee in the face. She purportedly fired a second shot to “stop the threat,” as mentioned in the affidavit.

Bilderback attributed her actions to mental health struggles, which she said were worsened by methamphetamine use.

Cops initially arrested her on second-degree homicide charges but the charge was bumped up to first-degree homicide.

A GoFundMe post described Lee as “a cherished son, beloved brother, and true friend to all who knew him. Michael’s kindness, laughter, and warmth touched everyone around him.”

“His sudden departure has left a void that can never be filled, and he was taken from us far too soon,” the description stated.

Bilderback is at the Eau Claire County Jail on $250,000 cash bond. Her next court date is scheduled for March 12, 2026.