Christenson Family Deaths in Grand Meadow Fire Ruled Homicide and Suicide

Four family members discovered inside a fire-damaged Grand Meadow home Sunday died from gunshot wounds, the Mower County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Wednesday, according to InForum.

The tragedy claimed the lives of seven-year-old Calvin Christenson and 14-year-olds Oliver and Felix Christenson. Investigators confirmed that the children’s deaths were homicides. Their father, Levi Christenson, died by suicide, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.

Grand Meadow Fire Department personnel and Mower County sheriff’s deputies initially responded to the burning structure located at the corner of First Avenue Northeast and First Street at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 8, postbulletin.com reported. Once crews brought the fire under control, first responders located the four deceased individuals inside.

Grand Meadow victims identified, determined to have died by suicide, homicide — KTTC

The 14-year-old twins, Felix and Oliver, were freshmen at Grand Meadow High School and played football for the school team this season, school rosters show.

In the wake of the incident, the family of the deceased announced they will not provide public comments or statements.

“The nature of this tragic and inconceivable tragedy occurring in the close-knit small community has touched all parts of the community,” wrote Sheriff Steve Sandvik in Wednesday’s news release.

Grand Meadow Fire - Christenson brothers — Photo: postbulletin.com

Sandvik asked that the public respect the privacy of all involved while local residents attempt to process the event and support one another through the healing process.

“We continue to ask that the privacy of all involved is respected during this extremely difficult time as the community comes together to help each other come to grips with this tragedy and work toward healing.” The sheriff's office said it will not release more details now because the investigation is complex.

A family friend established an online fundraising campaign to support Lauren Hosp, the children’s mother. “Lauren’s three boys were her entire world, her greatest blessings, and the light of her life. Everything she did was rooted in the love she had for them,” the fundraiser states.

“During this incredibly difficult time, we are asking our friends, family, and surrounding communities to come together and surround Lauren with all the love, compassion, and support we possibly can.”