Minneapolis, Minn. — Authorities are investigating a tragic incident in which a gunman allegedly carjacked a vehicle early Thursday morning, leading to a reckless chase that resulted in the deaths of two women. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Troy Mike Payton of St. Paul, reportedly engaged in a shooting spree while navigating multiple neighborhoods before crashing into another vehicle.
Payton was apprehended after emergency medical responders transported him to North Memorial Health Hospital in Robbinsdale for treatment of noncritical injuries. Later that day, he faced charges in Hennepin County District Court, including three counts of causing great bodily harm while fleeing from law enforcement. He is currently held on a bail of $4 million and is scheduled for a court appearance on Monday. At this time, no attorney is listed on his behalf in court records.
The victims of the collision have been identified as Marisa Ardys Casebolt, 25, who was driving, and her passenger Liberty Borg, also 25, both residents of Minneapolis. Another passenger in their vehicle, Borg’s 6-year-old son, named Greyson, suffered serious injuries and is receiving medical treatment at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC). His grandmother, Nichole Page, shared in an online fundraiser that Greyson underwent surgery for his injuries but faces a long recovery. She added that he is coping with both physical and emotional pain from losing his mother.
In addition to local charges, Payton faces federal charges for carjacking and using a firearm during a violent crime. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, a carjacking leading to fatalities falls under crimes that could incur the death penalty if convicted in federal court.
As investigators continue to piece together details from the incident, the community mourns the loss of Casebolt and Borg, with many expressing their condolences and support for Greyson. The tragic events underscore growing concerns about gun violence and public safety, prompting calls for more stringent measures in the community.
Members of the local community have also rallied around Greyson’s recovery, emphasizing the impact of the tragedy on families and friends. The aftermath of this incident raises critical questions about the broader implications of violent crimes and the laws related to firearms, while residents hope for justice for the victims and healing for the survivors.