Minnesota Mother Indicted for Killing Children in Arson Attack

Minnesota mother indicted killing children arson attack

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald May 07, 08:10 am

Photo: (Photo : JEFF HAYNES /Getty Images)

A Minnesota mother is indicted for killing her children in an arson attack. In a tragic incident in northern Minnesota, a woman took the lives of two children, ignited a house fire, and departed with another child.

The victims, reported by the Minneapolis Star-Tribune as Stately's 6 and 5-year-old children, faced a harrowing attack with a knife on March 15 at the Red Lake Indian Reservation. This devastating event also involved the woman leaving the scene with her 3-year-old son.

Minnesota Mother Indicted for Setting Fire

A mother from Red Lake sparked a statewide Amber Alert in March and is now facing charges for the deaths of her two sons after allegedly stabbing them and setting their home ablaze.

Jennifer Stately, 35, is accused of fatally stabbing Remi and Tristan Stately, ages 6 and 5, on March 15 before fleeing with her 3-year-old son, as per a federal indictment filed recently.

One boy succumbed to a stab wound, while the other passed due to smoke inhalation. An unnamed individual was reportedly present at the residence with Stately during the assaults.

Following the incident, an Amber Alert was issued for the abducted toddler, leading to a swift response from law enforcement after a vigilant motorist spotted the vehicle and contacted 911.

Deputies in Todd County apprehended Stately soon after, discovering the child with injuries.

U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger emphasized the collaborative effort between various law enforcement agencies in swiftly addressing such cases, noting, "This tragic case demonstrates the importance of close working relationships between the U.S. Attorney's Office and our state, federal, and tribal law enforcement partners."

Luger added, "Together, we are able to bring charges swiftly in cases such as this on behalf of the most vulnerable among us."

The community and school where Remi and Tristan attended Head Start and first grade organized vigils and ceremonies to mourn their untimely demise.

Described as a "smart, funny, loving little boy" who enjoyed playing with his siblings, Remi was fondly remembered in his obituary.

Tristan, the middle child, was known for his outgoing and protective nature towards his brothers, as highlighted in his obituary.

Legal Proceedings After the Arson Attack

A week following the dismissal of child abuse charges against Stately in Todd County, a federal indictment has been issued, marking a shift in the legal landscape.

While the Todd County Attorney's Office chose not to comment on the matter, earlier charges against Stately included child torture, abuse, neglect, and third-degree assault of her toddler, distinct from the current allegations of murder.

Authorities had refrained from disclosing specifics regarding the connection between Stately, the fatal fire, and the Amber Alert that ensued.

The indictment outlines a period of neglect leading up to the abduction and tragic events, accusing Stately of depriving the toddler of basic necessities and supervision, culminating in the fire at 14320 Circle Pine Road in Red Lake.

FBI Special Agent Alvin M. Winston Sr. emphasized the collective effort of agencies in seeking resolution and healing for the affected family and community.

Jennifer Marie Stately, facing charges of premeditated murder, murder while committing child abuse, arson, murder while committing arson, and felony child neglect, is represented by attorney Paul Engh, who hinted at a forthcoming not guilty plea.