The Incident
A Horrifying Discovery
On the evening of Thursday, May 27, Bethany A. Israel, a 30-year-old woman from Bloomington who was 17 to 18 weeks pregnant, was brutally attacked and killed by her brother, Jack Joseph Ball. The incident took place at Ball’s home on the 17000 block of Encina Path. According to the criminal complaint filed in Dakota County District Court, Ball used multiple sharp weapons, including knives, a saw, and a hatchet, to carry out the gruesome act.
The Investigation
Initial Response
The tragedy came to light when Israel’s mother, concerned about her daughter’s welfare, contacted the police shortly after 11 p.m. She reported that Israel had gone to Ball’s house for dinner but had not been heard from since. Upon arriving at the house, the mother witnessed Ball leaving in a hurry and noticed a significant amount of blood inside the house. She immediately alerted the authorities.
When officers arrived, they found a scene of unimaginable horror. Blood was found on the kitchen floor and in and around the sink. The officers also discovered large knives covered in blood, a saw, a hatchet, and body parts scattered throughout the house. Further inspection revealed more body parts and several notebooks containing writings by Ball. One of the entries expressed his anger towards Israel for being pregnant, stating she was “no longer innocent.”
Arrest and Charges
Apprehending the Suspect
Ball was eventually located after a 911 call from a Rosemount resident reported seeing a suspicious individual on a doorbell camera. Officers found Ball in the backyard of the house, with his car parked nearby. He had sustained self-inflicted injuries to his throat. Ball was taken into custody and remains hospitalized. He has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and is being held on a $1 million bail.
Legal Proceedings
Court Hearing
During Ball’s hearing on Tuesday afternoon, Prosecutor Stacy St. George emphasized the severity and premeditated nature of the crime, citing journal entries found at the scene. “The defendant killed someone, mutilated the body, and scattered various body parts throughout Dakota. Given the nature of the offense and the high public risk it poses, a high bond amount is appropriate,” St. George stated.
Ball’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 10. At this time, his attorney has not been listed in court documents.
Community and Family Reaction
A Devastated Family
The brutal murder of Bethany Israel, who was expecting her first child, has left her family and the community in deep mourning. Israel’s mother, who found the gruesome scene, is particularly devastated by the loss of her daughter and unborn grandchild. The community has expressed shock and sorrow over the heinous act.
Statements from Authorities
Seeking Justice
Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena released a statement addressing the horrific nature of the crime and the commitment to seeking justice for the victims. “Words cannot express the disturbing and horrifying allegations our law enforcement partners experienced during the investigation. My office will work hard to ensure the victims receive justice and will provide the necessary support for the victims’ family,” Keena stated.
Conclusion
The tragic and brutal murder of Bethany Israel has left an indelible mark on the Lakeville community. As the investigation continues and legal proceedings move forward, the community remains united in support of the Israel family. The horrific nature of the crime underscores the urgent need for justice and the importance of supporting those affected by such unimaginable loss.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with the Israel family during this incredibly difficult time.
