Judge Scolds Minnesota Woman Who Killed Ex-Girlfriend and Drove Around with the Body Before Crash on I-90
MINNESOTA — A Minneapolis woman who stabbed her ex-girlfriend to death, wrapped her body in bedding, and drove around with the remains before crashing on Interstate 90 has been sentenced to 40 years in prison — and received a harsh reprimand from the judge after showing no remorse in court.
A Deadly Attack Hidden in a Studio Apartment
The killing happened on June 22, 2024 inside the studio apartment of 35-year-old DJ Liara Tsai on East 16th Street in Minneapolis. Prosecutors say 33-year-old Margot Lewis stabbed Tsai in the neck, wrapped her body in a futon-like mattress, bedding and a tarp, and then placed the remains in Tsai’s own car.
Investigators later found the apartment soaked in blood, a missing kitchen knife, antifreeze, a small shovel, and a bloody metal-and-plastic object believed to be involved in the attack.
Crash on Interstate 90 Exposes the Murder
Lewis was driving Tsai’s vehicle near Highway 42 in Eyota when she crashed along I-90. Two good Samaritans stopped to help — and discovered Tsai’s body in the back seat, wrapped tightly in bedding.
Lewis reportedly pulled out a lawn chair and sat on the roadside as if waiting for someone to find the body.
According to the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, the victim’s “condition was suspicious,” and it was immediately clear her death was not caused by the crash.
Lewis was arrested shortly after.
Evidence Revealed a Disturbing Pattern
Prosecutors described the crime as a devastating emotional betrayal. Assistant Hennepin County Attorney Erin Lutz told the court that Tsai had been writing love poems to Lewis — even as Lewis was journaling about wanting to kill her.
“There is no doubt Ms. Tsai was a bright, vibrant, creative woman whose death has left a hole in the hearts of so many,” Lutz said. “The court’s sentence can’t bring her back, but it captures the gruesome and horrific nature of the actions that resulted in her death.”
Lewis was convicted in September of:
- Second-degree murder with intent
- Second-degree murder without intent while using a dangerous weapon
She still faces additional charges for hiding Tsai’s body.
Judge: ‘Ma’am, this is not a discussion’
During sentencing this week, Lewis attempted to tell the court she “never would have killed” Tsai — despite the verdict, evidence, and her own previous statements.
Judge Paul Scoggin quickly cut her off after repeated interruptions:
“Ma’am, this is not a discussion. Do you understand me?”
Lewis remained defiant, prompting the judge to impose an upward sentencing departure, giving her the full 40-year term.
She received 517 days of credit for time already spent in custody.
Community Remembers a Beloved Artist
Friends and supporters of Tsai — a beloved Minneapolis DJ known for her creativity and energy — said the loss has devastated the city’s arts community. Loved ones described her as “bright,” “vibrant,” and “deeply kind.”
As the case continues with additional charges pending, Tsai’s family is expected to give further statements later this year.
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