Partner Charged in Murder of Mom, Young Son

In Lexington, Minnesota, Irving Van Marsaw, 53, has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder. These charges stem from the fatal shooting of his estranged partner, Jennifer Sue Marsaw, 44, and her 5-year-old son, Marzai Andrew Dawson. The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, following a domestic dispute.

Authorities responded to a 911 call from a child who reported that her mother and brother had been shot. Upon arrival, officers found Jennifer deceased from a gunshot wound to the chest. Marzai, who had been shot in the torso and arm, was transported to a hospital but later died. An autopsy confirmed both victims were shot at close range.

Evidence suggests a history of domestic abuse. The child who called 911 reported that Irving had previously assaulted her mother and had made death threats against Jennifer and her children. Restraining orders had been granted but later dismissed. Irving was apprehended shortly after the shooting and a 9mm handgun was recovered nearby.