Mother of Deceased Pregnant Woman from Eagan Speaks Out

The 25-year-old pregnant woman who was killed Tuesday been identified as Senicha Marie Lessman, who resided in Eagan. Police say Lessman’s body and fetus are currently at the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s office and will be undergoing an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

"We are devastated at the tragic death of my daughter Senicha and her unborn son," said Margi Lessman.

"She was a loving, kind, smart and beautiful young woman who was very excited to be a mother. She was loved greatly by all of her family, friends and coworkers. We will miss her more than words can say. We are asking for privacy while our family grieves during this difficult time."

One man was arrested after Lessman was found dead in Eagan Tuesday. On Jan. 24, 2017, at 2:53 p.m., Eagan officers were called to the 3100 block of Alden Pond Lane regarding a 25-year-old female who was found unresponsive.

Police, along with Eagan fire and Health East paramedics, arrived and attempted life-saving measures on Lessman. However, she pronounced dead at the scene.

Police say Lessman appeared to have been subjected to trauma, and Eagan detectives believe the death was due to a homicide. The 32-week-old fetus has also died as a result of the homicide, according to police.

Shortly before 6 p.m. Tuesday, Vern Jason Mouelle, 23, of Brooklyn Park was arrested in Mounds View as a person of interest. Mouelle is currently being held at the Dakota County Jail where the Dakota County Attorney’s Office is expected to review the case for related charges, according to a news release.

It is believed that Mouelle and Lessman were in a relationship, however without a determination by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office, authorities cannot confirm the fetus’ father at this time.

Patch will update this story as more information becomes available.

Image via Eagan Police Department