Hallock, Minnesota, found itself at the center of a tragic incident on Thursday, March 13, 2025, when a murder shocked the small community. The Kittson County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim of the homicide as 43-year-old Justin Esparza. The disturbing events unfolded around 1:30 p.m. in the 200 block of 2nd Street SW, leaving residents searching for answers.
Authorities were first alerted to the situation when they responded to reports of a deceased adult male at the scene. Upon arriving, investigators discovered Esparza’s body and immediately suspected foul play. The shocking nature of the crime escalated when Jordan Hanson, a 23-year-old woman from Kennedy, was arrested and booked into the Kittson County jail on suspicion of murder.
According to the Kittson County Sheriff’s Office, initial evidence and witness reports directly linked Hanson to the crime scene. This included ballistic and testimonial evidence, which would later aid in charging her.
The breakthrough in the case came when Hanson’s mother, Tamara Devore, contacted authorities. In a call that stunned investigators, Devore stated her daughter confessed to being at Esparza’s residence and shooting him in the head. This confession led deputies to Hanson and gave investigators a clearer understanding of what had occurred.
Additional evidence strengthened the case against Hanson. When police arrived at the scene, they recovered a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun near the victim’s body, alongside a spent casing on the floor. A witness present during the incident admitted to smoking methamphetamine with both Esparza and Hanson shortly before the shooting took place.
For the small, close-knit town of Hallock, such violence is rare and unsettling. Friends and family of Justin Esparza have described him as a warm-hearted man who did not deserve such a tragic end. The family has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to help transport Esparza’s body to St. Paul, where relatives plan to hold his memorial.
Many in Hallock are grappling with the implications of the event, questioning how such violence could take place in their peaceful community. Local officials have reassured residents that they are working diligently to bring justice to Esparza’s family.
Jordan Hanson was no stranger to struggles. According to court records, she had recently left a treatment program for drug abuse. While the arrest and subsequent charges might bring some closure, the tragedy has highlighted ongoing challenges related to drug abuse in communities like Hallock.
Hanson has been charged with second- and third-degree murder. Her bail was set at $200,000 in cash for an unconditional release or $2 million for a non-cash bond with specific conditions. This high-profile case has prompted public discussion about mental health and the role of addiction in contributing to violent incidents.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is assisting in the investigation, helping to piece together the events leading to Esparza’s untimely death. Prosecutors are working on building a strong case as Hanson faces what could be a lengthy legal battle ahead.
The case has drawn attention across the region, with updates being shared by local media outlets like Thief River Falls Times and Valley News Live. Investigators remain committed to uncovering all the details to ensure justice is served.
This shocking murder has left Hallock shaken, reminding residents how fragile safety can feel even in the smallest towns. As the investigation progresses, the hope for justice for Justin Esparza remains a priority for his family and local law enforcement.
For now, Hallock mourns the loss of a community member while reflecting on the broader social issues that led to such a tragedy. This case serves as a solemn reminder of the impact of addiction on individuals and communities alike, sparking conversations about improving access to support and preventive measures.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information related to the case to contact the Kittson County Sheriff’s Office or the Minnesota BCA. Community members continue to support Justin Esparza’s family as they navigate this devastating loss.
