Just after 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 7, officers responded to a 911 call. The call came from Shay Michael Benson, 37. He reported a medical emergency at a home on the 6400 block of Bloomington Avenue South.
Responding officers found a 37-year-old woman in a basement bathroom. She had a severe head laceration. Medics attempted lifesaving care. She died from her injuries.
Investigators noted signs of a struggle in the basement living area. Police said Benson had blood on his clothing. They also noted fresh injuries to his hands.
Police said Benson’s account did not match the evidence at the scene. He was arrested on suspicion of murder. Formal charges had not been filed as of this report.
Authorities have not released the victim’s name. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner will confirm identity and ruling. Next of kin notifications are pending.
Records show Benson has prior convictions in Minnesota. Cases include second-degree criminal sexual conduct in 2009. Other cases include domestic assault and domestic abuse violations. He has a prior predatory offender registration violation.
Detectives are processing the scene and reviewing evidence. They will examine phone records, forensic results, and witness statements. Additional details will be released when charging documents are filed.
Police asked nearby residents with doorbell or security video to contact investigators. Tips can help confirm timelines and vehicle movements.
What We Know
- Call time: ~5:00 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 7.
- Location: 6400 block, Bloomington Ave. S., Richfield.
- Victim: Adult female, 37; name pending medical examiner.
- Suspect: Shay Michael Benson, 37; arrested at the scene.
- Status: Held on suspicion of murder; charges pending.
Reminder: An arrest is an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Resources & Updates
- Richfield Police Department updates: richfieldmn.gov
- Hennepin County Jail roster: hennepin.us/public-safety/jail
- Minnesota Courts case access: mncourts.gov
- Victim support (Day One MN, 24/7): dayoneservices.org | 1-866-223-1111
TRF News will update this story when charges are filed and the medical examiner releases findings.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
