Hanska Minnesota Double Murder: Randy Thomas Zimmerman Charged in Deaths of Tabitha Trescott and Justin Reinarts
A heartbreaking double homicide in Hanska, Minnesota, left two dead and a small community shaken. Learn key details about suspect Randy Thomas Zimmerman, victims Tabitha Trescott and Justin Reinarts, and the ongoing investigation.
Tragic Double Homicide in Hanska, Minnesota: What We Know
In a devastating crime that has stunned the quiet town of Hanska, Minnesota, authorities allege that Randy Thomas Zimmerman, 45, fatally shot his ex-girlfriend, Tabitha Leigh Trescott, 32, and her partner, Justin Paul Reinarts, 50, during a brutal home invasion on November 2, 2025. The tragedy has left a profound mark on this close-knit community of just 165 residents.
The Fatal Shooting
Around 4:22 a.m., police received a chilling 911 call from Trescott’s 13-year-old son, who reported that his mother’s ex-boyfriend had broken into their home on Blessum Street West and shot her. When officers arrived, they found two adults deceased from gunshot wounds, both killed while asleep in bed.
The young boy told investigators he was awakened by shouting—“You f----- b----, I gave you a chance”—followed by a gunshot. Peering from his room, he saw Zimmerman holding a shotgun and was ordered to return to his room. Moments later, the brave child called 911, providing key details that guided police to the suspect.
The Manhunt and Arrest
Zimmerman fled the scene in his black 2013 Toyota Camry, sparking a multi-state manhunt. Surveillance footage captured his vehicle circling the neighborhood hours before the shooting, parking nearby, then speeding off minutes after. He also allegedly texted a confession to another of Trescott’s children after the murders.
Roughly 12 hours later, around 4:12 p.m., Zimmerman was captured in Iowa following a high-speed chase involving multiple agencies — including the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa State Patrol. During the pursuit, Zimmerman reportedly fired at officers, though no one was injured. He was taken into custody and now faces two counts of second-degree murder, with possible upgrades to first-degree pending grand jury review.
Victims Remembered
The tragedy has deeply affected Hanska’s residents. Justin Reinarts, one of the victims, was a local firefighter known for his kindness and community spirit. Neighbors described him as “the kind of guy who’d help fix your roof or pay your gas bill.” Tabitha Trescott, a devoted mother, leaves behind two children and a grieving family.
Their deaths have sparked both sorrow and reflection across Brown County — a reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and gun-related crimes.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities from the Brown County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) continue to process evidence, including spent shotgun shells and surveillance footage. Zimmerman remains held in Iowa, awaiting extradition to Minnesota.
Investigators emphasize that while a domestic motive appears likely, all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Timeline of Key Events
| Time/Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| 1:37 a.m., Nov 2, 2025 | Zimmerman's car seen near the victims' home. |
| 4:10 a.m., Nov 2, 2025 | Car parks across from residence. |
| ~4:22 a.m., Nov 2, 2025 | Shooting occurs; child hears yelling and gunfire. |
| 4:22 a.m., Nov 2, 2025 | 13-year-old calls 911. Zimmerman allegedly texts confession. |
| Morning, Nov 2, 2025 | Police confirm double homicide; manhunt begins. |
| ~4:12 p.m., Nov 2, 2025 | Zimmerman arrested in Iowa after chase and shots fired. |
| Nov 3, 2025 | Charges filed in Minnesota; first court appearance in Iowa. |
| Ongoing | Investigation continues; possible grand jury review. |
Agencies Involved
| Agency/Department | Role in Investigation |
|---|---|
| Brown County Sheriff’s Office | Led initial response and investigation. |
| Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) | Processed the crime scene with mobile lab. |
| New Ulm Police Department | Assisted in response and manhunt. |
| Sleepy Eye Police Department | Supported law enforcement operations. |
| Hanska Fire Department | Provided emergency and logistical assistance. |
| Nicollet County Sheriff’s Office | Supported tactical operations. |
| Louisa, Washington & Muscatine County (IA) Sheriff’s Offices | Helped in pursuit and arrest. |
| Iowa State Patrol | Stopped suspect vehicle during chase. |
Community and Awareness
As Hanska mourns, advocacy groups urge awareness about domestic violence prevention. Support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233), offering confidential help 24/7.
This case stands as a sobering reminder of how personal conflict and access to firearms can lead to irreversible loss — and why small communities must remain vigilant in supporting victims before violence occurs.