Victim Identified In Norwalk Manslaughter Case: Update

NORWALK, CT — Forty-nine-year-old Norwalk resident Lisa Zemlock has been identified as the person who was killed early Wednesday in an incident at the Westport Avenue apartment she shared with Paul Bjerke, according to police.

The 59-year-old Bjerke was arrested on a charge of first-degree Manslaughter after an alleged assault led to Zemlock's death.

"The Norwalk Detective Bureau is actively investigating a death that occurred at 505 Westport Avenue Norwalk," wrote Norwalk Police Lt. Terrence Blake in a statement. "The victim is identified as Lisa Zemlock, 49 years old of 505 Westport Avenue, Unit 17, Norwalk. Detectives are awaiting the results of an autopsy that will be conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner."

Bjerke was arrested at about 1:30 a.m. after police were called to the apartment on a report of an assault.

"Arriving officers found the victim deceased within the residence. Officers detained Paul Bjerke, who was located inside the residence."

The department's Detective Bureau and Crime Scene Unit immediately began investigating the incident and charged Bjerke for his alleged role in the death.

Additional details of the circumstances that led up to the death were not disclosed.

"This investigation remains ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Fitzmaurice at 203-854-3180."

Bjerke was held in lieu of a $750,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned in court today, April 26.

In addition to contacting Det. Fitzmaurice at the above number, anonymous tips pertaining to the case can be left at:

• Norwalk Police Tip Line at 203-854-3111
• Norwalk Police website at: www.norwalkpd.com
• Or by text by typing "NPD" into the text field, followed by the message, and sending it to CRIMES (274637)

Photo: Paul Bjerke. Photo credit: Norwalk Police Department