In a shocking case that has gripped the community of Lakeville, Minnesota, Jack Joseph Ball, 23, has been charged with the second-degree murder of his pregnant sister, Bethany Israel, 30, and her unborn child.
The gruesome discovery was made after concerned family members alerted the authorities.
On Thursday evening, police were called to Ball’s residence after Israel’s family reported her missing following a dinner with her brother.
Horrific Scene at the Residence
Upon entering the home, police encountered a scene of unimaginable horror.
Blood was found in various locations throughout the kitchen, including a large pool on the floor, under the sink, and on the cabinets.
Officers discovered a bloody saw, hatchet, and large knives. Additionally, they found several dismembered body parts believed to belong to Israel.
Arrest and Initial Court Appearance
On Friday, Jack Ball was formally booked into Dakota County Jail. His mugshot was released to the public, and his first court appearance is scheduled for June 10.
According to charging documents, the police were alerted by Israel’s mother, who became worried when her daughter did not return home.
After driving to Ball’s residence, she saw him quickly leave the premises, prompting her to enter the home and find a substantial amount of blood. She immediately called 911.
Search and Capture
As the investigation continued, police received another 911 call from a resident in nearby Rosemount. The resident reported seeing a man leaving what appeared to be a body part on their front porch, as captured by their ring camera.
Responding officers located Ball in the backyard of a neighboring property. He was covered in blood and had a self-inflicted knife wound across his throat.
Despite his injuries, Ball was able to communicate with the officers and was subsequently taken into custody and transported to a local hospital.
Investigation Findings
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that Israel died due to “complex homicidal violence.”
Officers also found several journals belonging to Ball, which detailed his anger towards his sister for being pregnant and “no longer innocent.” These journals provided crucial insight into his state of mind leading up to the crime.
Community Reactions and Support
The case has deeply disturbed the Lakeville community and beyond. Neighbor Cindy Bond recalled hearing a female scream followed by shouting and a car peeling off, describing the incident as deeply unsettling.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Israel’s husband, Josh, and her family.
The fundraiser highlights Bethany Israel’s significant impact on her community, particularly in the volleyball circles where she was a cherished figure.
Legal Proceedings and Official Statements
Jack Ball appeared in Dakota County District Court via video conference from the hospital. Judge Bryce Ehrman set his bail at $2 million without conditions and $1 million with conditions.
Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena expressed the community’s shock, stating, “The allegations in this case are deeply disturbing and horrific, words can’t describe what our law enforcement partners encountered during the investigation.”
She assured that her office would work diligently to ensure justice for the victims and support for their family.
Conclusion
The brutal murder of Bethany Israel and her unborn child has left a profound void in the lives of her family and friends.
Her radiant spirit, kindness, and love for life have been remembered by all who knew her.
As the legal process unfolds, the community remains united in grief and determination to seek justice for Bethany and her unborn baby.
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