A Minnesota man, Craig Hameister, has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Melissa Hunt, following a tragic shooting incident. Hameister, 44, was arrested after attempting to flee from authorities by hiding in a tree, leading to a tense standoff.
This case highlights the severity of domestic violence and the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Hunt’s death.
Details of the Incident
On June 19, the Wabasha County Sheriff’s Office reported that Craig Hameister had been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of his 36-year-old girlfriend, Melissa Hunt. The incident unfolded in Kellogg, Minnesota, around 90 miles southeast of Minneapolis, when Hunt drove into a local homeowner’s driveway severely injured.
She had visible injuries to her face and jaw and managed to tell police that Hameister had struck her with a stick at a nearby boat launch.
Despite the injuries, Hunt was able to provide critical details to authorities, including a description of Hameister’s vehicle, a white pickup truck, and his home address. She was quickly transported to a hospital, but sadly, she succumbed to her injuries.
Upon further investigation, an autopsy revealed gunshot residue on her face wounds, which pointed to a gunshot being involved in the attack. Authorities also discovered an unspent round of ammunition at the boat launch.
Search for Hameister
As police continued their investigation, they traced Hameister’s vehicle to a residence in Chatfield, Minnesota, located about 40 miles south of Kellogg. Upon inspecting the vehicle, officers found a 9 mm round on the floor and noted the door was open.
When questioning the homeowners, they confirmed that Hameister had been at their home and appeared very nervous. He told them that “something bad happened” and that “the cops would be coming.”
Furthermore, one of the residents informed the police that a 9 mm handgun had gone missing after Hameister left the house, possibly taking it with him. This led investigators to intensify their search for the suspect.
Hiding and Standoff
The investigation escalated as law enforcement from the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office joined in the search for Hameister. Authorities eventually located him in a wooded area, where he had fled to hide in a tree.
A tense, hours-long standoff ensued as Hameister remained in the tree while police worked to safely apprehend him.
The situation came to a peaceful end when Hameister was finally taken into custody. During the arrest, authorities discovered a 9 mm handgun near the tree where he had been hiding, further linking him to the crime.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Craig Hameister has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder, one with intent and one without intent, as well as one count of manslaughter.
He is currently being held on a $2 million bond, awaiting further legal proceedings. The case has drawn attention due to its tragic nature and the dangerous escalation of violence.
The murder of Melissa Hunt has left a community in shock and raised concerns about the dangers of domestic violence. Craig Hameister’s attempt to evade capture by hiding in a tree and his subsequent arrest after a standoff highlight the seriousness of the charges he faces.
As the investigation continues, it serves as a reminder of the need for increased awareness and prevention of domestic violence.
