ST PAUL, Minn. — A man is in custody in connection with a homicide that occurred inside a St. Paul warehouse Tuesday morning.
St. Paul police spokesperson Sgt. Natalie Davis told reporters during a news conference that squads were dispatched to the 1700 block of Wynne Avenue, which is in the city's Como neighborhood, around 9 a.m. on reports of a woman on fire. Responding officers found a woman in her 40s who was severely burned, unresponsive and not breathing. First responders attempted lifesaving measures but the victim was declared dead on the scene.
"I think someone lost their life in a terrible way today," Davis reflected.
In talking with warehouse employees investigators were able to identify a suspect in the homicide, who had reportedly been in a previous relationship with the victim. He was linked to a residence in Bloomington, and police in that city responded to the address and arrested the suspect a short distance from his home, which had been set on fire.
The suspect was transported to the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center, where he was questioned by police. A number of warehouse employees were also taken to police headquarters to give their account of what had happened.
"Calls like this are absolutely shocking and devastating. I don't have the words for this. I just know this senseless violence will cause ripples of grief and pain for the loved ones family," Davis said, choking back tears.
The victim's family tells KARE 11 that she worked at the warehouse. They had grown increasingly concerned with the suspect, whom she had dated for several years.
The victim's ex-husband filed an order of protection against the suspect in 2018 for their children's safety. The victim also filed one against the suspect in 2021.
Each document makes note of the suspect's drug use, access to handguns and mental health issues.
If you or anyone you know is in danger, here are some resources:
- In Minnesota, call Women's Advocates Crisis Line: 651-227-8284
- In Minnesota, call Cornerstone's Day One Crisis Hotline at 1-866-223-1111
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Always call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
- The Domestic Abuse Project offers assistance
- The Domestic Abuse Service Center lists resources available through Hennepin County
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