A thorough investigation into the four young adults found dead in an abandoned vehicle in rural Wisconsin has revealed the murders occurred in Saint Paul, Minn.
Investigators with the Saint Paul Police Department’s Homicide Unit announced Monday, Sept. 20, that they would be assuming the lead role in the investigation into the deaths of Jasmine Christine Sturm, Matthew Isiah Pettus, Nitosha Lee Flug-Presley and Loyace Foreman III.
The four were found by a farmer in a cornfield just outside of the Town of Sheridan Sunday, Sept. 12, and the Dunn County Sheriff’s Department originally took the lead in the investigation. But after gathering evidence and information about what happened before and after the bodies were discovered, investigators determined the killings occurred in Minnesota.
On Wednesday, Sept. 15, Saint Paul police officers arrested Darren McWright, who also goes by the last name Osborne, in connection to the deaths. He’s currently being held in the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center on several outstanding warrants, including at least one out of Dunn County. Then, on Friday, Sept. 17, Antoine D. Suggs turned himself in to Gilbert, Ariz., police after investigators announced he was wanted for questioning. He remains in jail in Arizona, awaiting extradition.
Investigators note there’s still a lot of work left to do on the case and ask anyone with any information to call them at 651-266-5650.
“I spent the weekend mourning the victim’s lives with their families, their friends, and our community members, and I feel in my soul how these senseless deaths shook our community to its core,” said Saint Paul Chief of Police Todd Axtell. “We have four young lives—with all of their promise—erased. We have families left with only memories. And we have an entire community in search of answers.
“I’m proud of the work our investigators have put into the case—sleepless nights, days upon days at work, going home only to tuck their kids into bed and then returning to the office. I’m confident their dedication and unrelenting commitment to seeking justice for these four lost lives will soon provide the answers their loved ones so desperately seek.”
Axtell also noted the exceptional work done by members of the Dunn County Sheriff’s Office, who initially took the lead on the investigation and will continue to assist until all those responsible for the four deaths are brought to justice.
"Losing Jasmine, Loyace, Matthew and Nitosha is one of the most heartbreaking traumas our community has ever endured," said Mayor Melvin Carter. "While nothing could rationalize this loss, our Saint Paul officers will find the answers we seek, and ensure that anyone involved in this crime is held fully accountable."
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, FBI and ATF are also working on the case.
These are the 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th homicides of the year in the city.