MINNEAPOLIS — A 41-year-old man fatally stabbed his wife and 7-year-old daughter inside a Minnesota daycare on Wednesday morning before killing himself, according to a Hennepin County search warrant released Thursday.
Nathan Brown, identified by authorities as the suspect, also fatally shot himself in an upstairs closet after the attack. The warrant states Brown stabbed his 41-year-old wife, Kristen Brown, and their daughter, Evie Brown, at the in-home daycare Kristen operated from the family’s basement in Hopkins, a Minneapolis suburb.
A father dropping off his children heard screams from the basement and entered the home, initially believing Brown was performing CPR before realizing it was an attack. The witness called 911 and fled with his children and two others present. Six children were unharmed, police confirmed.
Investigators Link Earlier Killing
Authorities said Brown is also a suspect in the death of a 78-year-old female relative in Burnsville, approximately 20 miles from Hopkins. Brown had recently lived at the relative’s home, though police have not disclosed her identity or relationship to him.
Daycare Closure Letter Cited 'Relationship Issues'
The warrant includes a detail from a recent letter sent by Kristen Brown to parents, announcing the daycare would close due to "relationship issues with Nathan."
Police Continue Investigation
Hopkins police stated they are still investigating the incident and have not released a motive. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office is handling the case, and authorities have not confirmed the cause of death for the victims or Brown.
Suicide Prevention Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.