Minnesota Man Charged with Murder of Ex-Girlfriend Amid Custody Dispute
A Tragic Altercation Turns Fatal
Authorities in Minnesota have charged Craig Hameister, 44, with murder following the death of his former girlfriend, Melissa Hunt, 36. The incident is reportedly rooted in an ongoing child custody dispute involving their shared daughter.
Injuries and Immediate Response
On the day of the incident, police were alerted after Hunt was found in a driveway in Kellogg, exhibiting severe facial injuries, including missing teeth. Eyewitness reports suggest she had been assaulted at a nearby boat launch. When deputies arrived, Hunt disclosed that Hameister had struck her with a stick. Despite prompt medical attention at a local hospital, she succumbed to her injuries just hours later.
Investigation and Evidence
Following the discovery of Hunt, law enforcement launched a manhunt for Hameister, who initially evaded police. Investigators conducted a thorough search of the boat launch but found scant evidence of a crime there, apart from a solitary unspent 9mm bullet, likely washed away due to heavy rainfall. Hameister’s vehicle was later located near Chatfield, revealing another live bullet in the floorboard, which raised additional concerns.
Witnesses reported that Hameister had arrived at a nearby residence in a state of distress, indicating “something bad happened” before he fled on a motorcycle, leaving his truck behind.
Arrest and Suspected Firearm
After an extensive search, police tracked Hameister to a trailer park in Olmsted County, where he attempted to elude capture by climbing a tree. Following a lengthy standoff, he was apprehended. Authorities later discovered a 9mm handgun at the base of the tree, raising significant questions about his involvement in Hunt’s death.
Autopsy reports further complicated the situation, revealing that gunshot residue was found on Hunt’s injuries, suggesting that a firearm may have been involved.
Legal Consequences and Background
Hameister faces serious charges, including two counts of second-degree murder and one count of manslaughter. He is currently held on a $2 million bond. Court documents indicate he had a history of financial disputes with Hunt, being ordered to pay $645 a month in child support and nearly $3,000 in arrears.
As this tragic story evolves, the community is left reeling from the impact of this domestic violence case that has culminated in such a heartbreaking loss.
Further developments in the investigation and legal proceedings are expected in the coming days.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.