MARION TOWNSHIP, Minn. (KTTC) — Authorities have arrested a Rochester man in connection with a fatal incident that unfolded near Chester in Marion Township on Wednesday evening.
According to the Wabasha County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), 44-year-old Craig Hameister was taken into custody by the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) and transported to the Wabasha County Jail. He is a suspect in the homicide of 36-year-old Melissa Hunt.
The incident began around 4:45 p.m., when deputies responded to a call about a seriously injured woman in the West Newton area, southeast of Kellogg. Hunt was transported to St. Elizabeth’s Health Care, where she later died from her injuries.
At approximately 8 p.m., WCSO contacted OCSO for assistance in the ongoing homicide investigation. Hameister was spotted near Meadowbrook Street SE in Marion Township and fled from deputies. Authorities believed he may have been armed, prompting the formation of a perimeter and a multi-agency response.
After several hours of searching, Hameister was located in a wooded area and taken into custody without further incident.
Sheriff Rodney Bartsh of Wabasha County confirmed that Hameister and Hunt had a previous relationship. Authorities have not yet disclosed the nature of Hunt’s injuries or the motive behind the incident.
Residents in the Chester Trailer Park area were advised to shelter in place during the search due to safety concerns.
This remains a developing story. Updates are expected as the investigation continues.
