'Domestic violence is a public health issue' | Local cases highlight prevention and awareness needs, advocate says

NORTH ST PAUL, Minn. — Two deadly domestic violence cases in North St. Paul and Cottage Grove over the past week are highlighting warning signs of abuse and misconceptions surrounding murder-suicides, according to a domestic violence prevention advocate. 

“Murder-suicides are not about mental health. They're about domestic violence and they're about power and control,” said Meggie Royer, senior communications manager with Violence Free Minnesota.

Authorities said the bodies of a married couple were found inside their North St. Paul home Sunday. Lisa Thigpen, 37, was found with stabbing wounds and her husband was found with gunshot wounds. Their 14-month-old granddaughter was also inside but was unharmed. The case is being investigated as a...