Saint Paul, Minnesota

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Authorities in the US have alleged that a 23-year-old man from the state of Minnesota killed and dismembered his 30-year-old pregnant sister in Lakeville last week, American media reported on Tuesday (May 28). Jack Joseph Ball faces two counts of second-degree murder in connection with the death of his sister and her unborn child

The woman was confirmed to be between 17 and 18 weeks pregnant, CBS News reported. Ball committed the crime because he was anrgy that his sister was pregnant and “no longer innocent."

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Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena said that the allegations in the case were deeply disturbing and horrific, adding, that her office would work hard to ensure the victims (the woman and her unborn child) received justice, and necessary support would be provided to the victim's family. 

Also read | UK: Nursery worker who strapped nine-month-old girl to beanbag found guilty of murder

CBS News reported that Ball's bail had been set for $2 million without conditions and $1 million with conditions. Officials said that when he is medically cleared, the 23-year-old would be transferred to the Dakota County jail. Ball's next court appearance would take place on June 10. 

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The crime

As per the criminal complaint, the victim's family was concerned that she did not return home after having dinner with Ball at a residence in Lakeville. One of the family members drove to the residence and observed Ball quickly leaving the scene. 

When this family member entered the house, they saw a significant amount of blood and called the police. The complaint said that officers who responded to the call found bloody knives, and several dismembered body parts they believed to be from the victim.

An alert was put out for Ball's vehicle. The vehicle was located in Rosemount.

Accused suffered wound to his neck

While the police launched a manhunt for Ball, a Rosemount resident observed on their home security camera a man placed "what appeared to be a body part" on their front step. Ball was finally located and suffered a wound to his neck that appeared to be self-inflicted. He was hospitalised. 

After taking Ball into custody, officers later found journals and other papers belonging to him where he wrote that he was angry that his sister was pregnant and “no longer innocent."

The victim's cause of death was determined as "complex homicidal violence."

(With inputs from agencies)