Minneapolist artist, activist found dead after home invasion

A talented north Minneapolis artist and community activist was found dead in her home on Thursday morning after an apparent home invasion. And police are treating the case as a homicide.

Minneapolis police responded to the 5100 block of Dupont Avenue North on a request by her family to check on her welfare around 9 a.m. Upon arrival, police found evidence of a forced entry, and the victim was found deceased in her home.

Susan Spiller, 68, was known for her colorful glasswork, artistic lampshades, and jewelry seen at numerous art festivals around the Twin Cities. She was also on the Lind Bohanon Neighborhood Association and an active community gardener. 

In a press conference Thursday, City Council President Barb Johnson said the victim was her close personal friend.

There have been no arrests made yet.

Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or send an anonymous tip to CRIMES (274637) and begin message with: TIP674 or call the MPD tip line at 612-692-TIPS (8477).  The case numbers are 15-263264.