MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in a Minneapolis neighborhood early Monday morning when 50-year-old Scott Joseph Devery reportedly shot and killed his 2-year-old daughter, Kinsley Prinsen, before turning the gun on himself in an apparent murder-suicide, police confirmed. The incident, which occurred in the quiet 2900 block of Colfax Avenue North, has left the community reeling and has drawn attention to the devastating impact of domestic violence and mental health struggles.
At approximately 12:20 a.m. on June 9, Minneapolis Police were called to the residence in response to reports of a shooting. Upon arriving at the home, officers discovered Devery and the young child, Kinsley, both deceased from gunshot wounds. The scene was tragic and harrowing, leaving authorities, emergency responders, and the community in a state of shock. Tragically, Kinsley’s mother, Trisha Ann Prinsen, was present in the home at the time of the shooting but was physically unharmed. However, the trauma of witnessing such a devastating act has left her and the community struggling to comprehend the depth of the tragedy.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed the immense grief that has gripped the city following the event. “This is an unimaginable, heartbreaking tragedy,” O’Hara said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the child’s mother as she endures this overwhelming loss, and to the officers and investigators who responded to such a devastating scene.” Chief O’Hara’s comments reflect not only the sorrow felt by law enforcement but also the profound sadness that has permeated the community in the wake of this senseless loss of life.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner has been tasked with officially determining the cause and manner of death. However, initial evidence and statements from law enforcement suggest that the incident is being treated as a murder-suicide. Authorities have confirmed that there were no prior reports of domestic violence or disturbances at the residence, and the motive behind the shooting remains unknown. This has only added to the shock of the situation, as there were no apparent signs of escalation leading up to the deadly act. The Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) continues to investigate the events that led to this tragic moment and has urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in their inquiry.
The loss of Kinsley has devastated her family and the wider community. In an emotional public post on a fundraising platform, Trisha Ann Prinsen shared her unimaginable grief, revealing the profound anguish she now faces. “I’m the mother of my beautiful angel, Kinsley Prinsen, who was fatally shot and killed by her father, and then he killed himself in front of me,” she wrote. The words of the grieving mother serve as a stark reminder of the emotional toll domestic violence and trauma can have on survivors, particularly when the violence affects innocent children.
Kinsley Prinsen, remembered by family and friends as a sweet, joyful toddler, had her life tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence. Her vibrant spirit and infectious laughter had touched the lives of those around her, and her untimely death has left family, friends, and the entire Minneapolis community in mourning. The community, which often prides itself on its sense of connection and support, has been shaken to its core by the events that unfolded that night. The loss of such a young life has prompted an outpouring of grief from all corners of the city, with many offering condolences and support to Kinsley’s mother and the family as they navigate this devastating time.
The incident has also prompted broader conversations about the impact of domestic violence and the mental health struggles that may contribute to such tragic events. Law enforcement officials have used the tragedy to stress the importance of mental health awareness, particularly within families facing crises. The effects of domestic violence are far-reaching and can have lasting emotional and psychological consequences, not just for the immediate victims but also for the witnesses and communities affected. The fact that a child’s life was taken in such a violent and tragic manner has sparked calls for increased access to mental health resources, counseling, and support systems to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In response to the incident, support services and counseling have been made available to the family members, friends, and first responders who have been affected by the tragedy. The city of Minneapolis, along with various local organizations, is offering grief support and mental health resources to help those dealing with the emotional aftermath of the loss. For Trisha Ann Prinsen, the road ahead will undoubtedly be filled with unimaginable pain and sorrow, but the support of the community is offering her some semblance of comfort during this difficult time.
As the investigation into the tragic shooting continues, the community of Minneapolis is left grappling with the profound loss of a young life and the devastating consequences of domestic violence. It is clear that Kinsley’s life was one that touched many, and her death serves as a painful reminder of the deep emotional scars that violence can leave behind. In times like these, the importance of coming together to support victims of violence, as well as promoting awareness about mental health, has never been more crucial.
While the investigation moves forward, and authorities work to understand the sequence of events leading to this tragedy, the community remains united in grief. The shocking loss of Kinsley Prinsen is a call to action for those who work in mental health and social services to continue advocating for resources that support families in crisis. The emotional well-being of those affected by violence must be addressed, and more proactive measures need to be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The story of Kinsley’s life, while tragically short, is one that will not be forgotten. She will be remembered for the joy she brought into her family’s life, and the loss will echo through the community for years to come. For Trisha Ann Prinsen, the pain of losing her daughter in such a horrific manner is unfathomable, and the path to healing will undoubtedly be long and challenging. However, the love and support of the community, and the memory of Kinsley’s sweet spirit, will provide a foundation upon which her family can begin to heal.
In the wake of this tragedy, the call to action is clear: to support families, raise awareness about mental health and domestic violence, and to ensure that future generations are not subject to the devastating effects of such violence. As the investigation unfolds and more details come to light, the focus must remain on justice for Kinsley and supporting the survivors of this tragic event as they begin to process and heal from the unimaginable loss they have suffered.
Rest in peace, Kinsley Prinsen. Your brief time on earth left an indelible mark on all who knew you, and your spirit will live on in the memories of those who loved you.
