Hopkins Daycare Killings Linked to Burnsville Death
HOPKINS, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — Four family members died Wednesday in violence spanning Hopkins and Burnsville.
The deaths included a mother, her young daughter, the suspected killer, and his mother.
Police responded to Brown Bear Childcare shortly after 9 a.m. on Aug. 12.
The home daycare is located in the 200 block of Tyler Avenue North.
A parent arriving for child drop-off heard screaming and reported an attack inside the home.
Investigators found Kristen Ann Brown, 41, and her daughter, Evie Ann Brown, 7, with fatal stab wounds.
Nathan Matthew Brown, 41, was found dead upstairs from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Police believe Nathan Brown killed Kristen and Evie before taking his own life.
Six Children Were Not Hurt
Six other children were inside the daycare when the violence happened.
Police said none of those children suffered physical injuries.
They were safely removed from the home and later reunited with their families.
Court records say the parent who reported the attack helped four children escape.
Officers later removed two other children from the home.
Brown Bear Childcare had an active state license for up to 10 children.
More details about the case are available from KSTP-TV.
Burnsville Death Connected
About three hours later, Burnsville police responded to another home.
The residence was near Maple Island Road and Joplin Avenue South.
Officers found 78-year-old Alice Anne Brown dead from apparent stab wounds.
Authorities identified Alice Brown as Nathan Brown’s mother.
Investigators believe Nathan Brown killed her before the Hopkins attack.
He had also recently been staying at the Burnsville residence.
Police have not announced a final motive for the killings.
Additional reporting is available from the Minnesota Star Tribune.
Hopkins Community Mourns
Hopkins Mayor Patrick Hanlon said the deaths have deeply affected the community.
Local daycare operators offered temporary free care for the six surviving children.
The offers could help families while they search for new childcare arrangements.
City leaders also said a community vigil will be planned.
Authorities said there is no continuing threat to the public.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner later formally identified those who died.
Investigators continue reviewing evidence from both homes.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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