HANSKA, MN — The small, close-knit communities of Hanska and Courtland are reeling from shock and heartbreak following a tragic double homicide that claimed the lives of Justin Reinhardt and his girlfriend late last night. What began as a quiet evening in rural Minnesota ended in unimaginable violence, leaving families shattered, neighbors frightened, and two towns united in grief.
According to the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a residence in rural Hanska shortly before midnight after receiving reports of a possible shooting. When law enforcement arrived, they discovered two individuals suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. They have since been identified as Justin Reinhardt, a beloved member of the community, and his girlfriend, whose name has not yet been publicly released pending family notification.
Authorities have since launched an intense manhunt for Randy Zimmerman, of Courtland, MN, who has been identified as a suspect in connection with the killings. A BOLO (Be On the Lookout) alert was issued early this morning, urging residents across the region to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activity immediately. Officials believe Zimmerman may be armed and dangerous, and residents are being cautioned not to approach him but to contact law enforcement right away.
Investigators from multiple agencies, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), are assisting local authorities in processing the scene and tracking down the suspect. While the motive behind the violence has not yet been confirmed, law enforcement officials are working around the clock to gather evidence and bring the person responsible to justice.
For those who knew Justin Reinhardt, the news of his death has been nothing short of devastating. Friends and family describe him as hardworking, kindhearted, and deeply devoted to those he loved. “Justin was one of the good ones,” said a longtime friend. “He’d give you the shirt off his back. He didn’t deserve this — none of them did.”
His girlfriend, whose identity remains protected at this time, is being remembered by friends as a warm and loving person who cared deeply for others. “She had a big heart and a beautiful spirit,” said one friend. “They were so happy together. It’s just so hard to understand how something like this could happen.”
As word of the tragedy spread through Hanska and Courtland, community members began gathering to support one another, lighting candles and leaving flowers at makeshift memorials. Both towns, known for their small populations and deep-rooted sense of neighborly care, have been shaken to their core.
“Our hearts are broken,” said one resident. “In communities like ours, everyone knows everyone. This isn’t something you ever expect to happen here.”
The Brown County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information about Randy Zimmerman’s whereabouts to contact authorities immediately. He is believed to be driving a vehicle registered in his name, though officials have not publicly released a description. The Sheriff emphasized that finding Zimmerman is their top priority and that the public’s cooperation could be critical in ensuring a safe resolution.
Local churches and community organizations are offering grief counseling and support services to those affected by the tragedy. Vigils are being planned in both Hanska and Courtland to honor Justin and his girlfriend’s memory — two lives that were tragically taken far too soon.
As investigators continue their search, residents remain united in sorrow and in hope that justice will soon be served.
For now, the towns of Hanska and Courtland grieve together — mourning the loss of two beloved community members and holding tightly to one another as they face the difficult days ahead.
Their names, their love, and their light will not be forgotten.
Leave a Reply