Mom Convicted of Stabbing 6-Year-Old Son, Setting Home Ablaze

Jennifer Marie Stately blocked her younger son's escape, leading to his death in the fire.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Jennifer Marie Stately, 37, was convicted of stabbing her 6-year-old son Remi to death and setting her home on fire, leaving her 5-year-old son Tristan to die from smoke inhalation as he was unable to escape the blaze. Stately fled the scene with her 3-year-old son Ethan, who was found covered in sores and unable to stand.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and mental health issues, as Stately's defense argued she felt the home was "demonized." It also raises questions about the Red Lake Reservation's jurisdiction and how to prevent such horrific crimes against children.

The details

Stately fatally stabbed Remi in the chest before using lighter fluid and gasoline to set three fires around her home, including at the exits, making it impossible for Tristan to escape. Tristan died from smoke inhalation, while Stately fled with her 3-year-old son Ethan, who was found covered in sores and unable to stand.

  • On March 15, 2024, Stately committed the crimes.
  • On February 26, 2026, Stately was convicted, just two-and-a-half weeks into her trial.
  • On May 6, 2024, Stately was indicted for murder and arson.

The players

Jennifer Marie Stately

A 37-year-old woman convicted of stabbing her 6-year-old son Remi to death and setting her home on fire, leading to the death of her 5-year-old son Tristan.

Remi

Stately's 6-year-old son who was fatally stabbed by his mother.

Tristan

Stately's 5-year-old son who died from smoke inhalation after his mother set their home on fire and blocked his escape.

Ethan

Stately's 3-year-old son who was found covered in sores and unable to stand after Stately fled the scene.

Paul Engh

Stately's defense lawyer who argued she felt the home was "demonized."

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What they’re saying

“We all witnessed the devastating aftermath of Jennifer Stately's horrific and unthinkable actions that night.”

— Drew Evans, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent (nypost.com)

“We hope that holding her accountable for her crimes will provide some sense of justice for the family and the entire Red Lake community who are forever impacted by the loss of these two young boys.”

— Drew Evans, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent (nypost.com)

What’s next

Stately is yet to be sentenced, and the case has raised questions about the Red Lake Reservation's jurisdiction and how to prevent such crimes against children.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and mental health issues, and the urgent need for better support and intervention to protect vulnerable children from such horrific acts.