Minneapolis, Minnesota – The recent death of a woman in her North Loop apartment is under investigation by the police as suspicious, with a troubling history of domestic assault incidents leading up to the tragedy. Allison J. Lussier had reached out to Minneapolis police multiple times over the past 18 months, reporting violent assaults allegedly committed by her boyfriend.
According to police records obtained by the Star Tribune this week, Lussier had informed officers of at least six instances where she was the victim of domestic violence before she was found deceased on Feb. 22 in her unit at the Cameron Historic Flats on N. 4th Street. The authorities are yet to determine the cause and manner of her death, as a toxicology report is pending.
In response to the ongoing investigation, police spokesman Aaron Rose stated that they are actively pursuing leads to make an arrest in the case. Throughout the reported assaults, officers had documented Lussier’s injuries and encouraged her to seek assistance from Cornerstone, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting domestic abuse victims.
Lussier’s tumultuous relationship with her on-again off-again boyfriend was a focal point in the police reports, with three separate incidents implicating him as the alleged perpetrator. Incidents varied from physical abuse at her apartment to threats of disfigurement and harm. Despite seeking an order for protection from the court, Lussier’s petition was ultimately dismissed, raising questions about the effectiveness of the legal system in cases of domestic violence.
The tragic outcome of Lussier’s situation sheds light on the prevalence of domestic violence in Minnesota, with at least 36 individuals losing their lives to intimate partner violence in 2023, as reported by Violence Free Minnesota. The need for enhanced collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations to address abuse cases effectively is emphasized by Artika Roller, the executive director of Cornerstone.
In response to the community outcry over Lussier’s death, a “Justice March” was held to demand answers and justice for the victim. Lussier’s family and supporters expressed frustration with the handling of domestic violence cases by law enforcement, citing a lack of action despite repeated calls for help. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urged to streamline their response to domestic violence cases and prioritize the safety and wellbeing of victims.