On November 7, 2024, in Duluth, Minnesota, 15-year-old Jacob Nephew was found deceased from apparent gunshot wounds at a residence on the 6000 block of Tacony Street. His mother, 47-year-old Erin Abramson, was also found dead at the scene. Authorities identified Jacob's father, 46-year-old Anthony Nephew, as the suspect in their deaths.
Subsequently, police proceeded to Anthony Nephew's home on the 4400 block of West 6th Street, where they discovered the bodies of his current wife,
45-year-old Kathryn Nephew, and their 7-year-old son, Oliver Nephew, both of whom had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Anthony Nephew was also found dead at this location from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigations revealed that Anthony Nephew had a history of mental health issues, which may have contributed to this tragic series of events. The Duluth Police Department confirmed that all individuals involved were known to each other and stated that there was no ongoing threat to the community.
Jacob was a student at Marshall School, where he was an active member of the UMD honor orchestra, Knowledge Bowl Team, Nordic ski team, orchestra, Chess Club, and Environmental Advocacy Club. He was remembered as a talented academic with a generous spirit, leaving a profound impact on his school community.
This devastating incident has deeply affected the Duluth community, prompting local authorities and organizations to offer support and counseling services to those impacted by the tragedy.