Full Breakdown
Fatal Crash in Minneapolis: Carjacking Suspect Kills Two Women
9/6/2025, 1:04:35 AM
Incident Overview
On September 4, 2025, a carjacking suspect fleeing from police caused a fatal crash in Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of two women and injuries to a child. The incident began around 8 a.m. when Minneapolis police received reports of a man armed with a gun near East Lake Street and Fourth Avenue South. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Troy Mike Payton, was seen driving a maroon Ford Explorer recklessly, swerving into traffic and onto sidewalks. After crashing the Explorer, he attempted to carjack a motorist at a red light but failed. He then violently carjacked a woman driving a black Volkswagen and fled the scene, firing shots as he drove away.
Timeline of Events
- 8:00 a.m.: Police respond to reports of a man with a gun.
- 8:19 a.m.: Reports of the suspect driving recklessly in downtown Minneapolis.
- 8:36 a.m.: Police initiate a pursuit of the suspect's vehicle.
- 8:39 a.m.: The suspect crashes into another vehicle at the intersection of Olson Memorial Highway and Penn Avenue North.
Victims Identified
The two women killed in the crash were identified as Marisa Ardys Casebolt and Liberty Borg, both 25 years old and residents of Minneapolis. A 6-year-old boy, the son of one of the victims, sustained serious injuries, including bilateral femur fractures and a traumatic brain injury, but is expected to survive.
Suspect Background
Troy Mike Payton, also known as Edward Tiki Arrington, has a criminal history that includes assault and firearm offenses. Following the crash, he was arrested and treated for non-life-threatening injuries at North Memorial Hospital. A firearm was recovered from the vehicle he was driving.
Official Statements & Responses
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, "This is a very devastating incident with very heartbreaking consequences for completely innocent people." He emphasized the need for stringent pursuit policies, explaining that the department must balance the urgency of apprehending violent criminals with the risks posed to the public during pursuits. O'Hara noted that the department has faced criticism for its pursuit policies, particularly in light of recent crime waves involving carjackings and smash-and-grabs.
Criticism & Opposition
David Titus, interim executive director of the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, called for tougher penalties for repeat violent offenders, stating, "Two innocent women are dead and a child is injured solely because of the reckless, violent actions of a criminal." This incident has reignited discussions about public safety and the effectiveness of current law enforcement policies.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While most reports agree on the sequence of events leading to the crash, there are discrepancies regarding the details of the suspect's actions prior to the carjacking, including the exact nature of the gunfire and the timeline of his reckless driving. Additionally, the condition of the child has been described variably across sources, with some indicating critical injuries while others state non-life-threatening injuries.
What's Next
The Minnesota State Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash, while the Minneapolis Police Department is investigating the carjacking. The community is left grappling with the tragic consequences of this incident, as discussions surrounding public safety and law enforcement policies continue.
