Jennifer Stately : Minnesota Woman Charged with Murdering 2 Kids and Setting House Ablaze

Jennifer Stately, a 35-year-old woman, was charged on May 6 following the incident that took place on March 15 in Blackduck, Minnesota.

Minnesota BCA

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Stately is facing charges of murdering two children and neglecting a third child after a tragic incident where she set fire to a residence and fled the scene.

According to U.S. attorney Andrew M. Luger, the incident occurred on March 15 when Stately attacked two minors with a knife and ignited a fire in the house before leaving with a toddler in tow.

Court documents revealed that one of the children succumbed to stab wounds to the chest, while the other child died from smoke inhalation due to the fire.

A passing motorist later spotted Stately in a vehicle with the third child who was found to be “covered in wounds” and displaying signs of neglect, prompting an Amber Alert by authorities.

Stately has been charged with premeditated murder, murder in the course of committing arson, murder in the course of committing child abuse, arson, and felony child neglect.

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The deceased children, identified as Stately’s sons Remi and Tristan Stately, aged 6 and 5 respectively, were born in Red Lake, Minnesota, and attended Red Lake School.

A Star Tribune report stated that a vigil was held in their honor by the school and local community following their tragic deaths.

Stately’s attorney, Paul Engh, indicated that his client intends to plead not guilty, citing a “firm basis” for the decision, as reported by The Associated Press.

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U.S. Attorney Luger emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies in swiftly addressing cases involving vulnerable individuals like in this tragic incident.

FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for decisive action in the face of such heartbreaking losses.

Stately remains in custody as legal proceedings continue in the case, with authorities working towards seeking justice for the victims and closure for the affected family and community.

For further information, PEOPLE has reached out to the Red Lake County Sheriff’s Office for additional comments.

Original article published on People.