HANSKA — A Courtland man accused of killing two people in their Hanska home last year has pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder.
Randy Thomas Zimmerman, 46, pleaded guilty to first-degree felony murder in the death of Justin Reinarts and first-degree murder involving a past pattern of domestic abuse in the death of Tabitha Trescott, according to a plea petition filed Monday in Brown County District Court.
Under the agreement, both counts carry mandatory life sentences with the possibility of release. The court will determine whether the sentences will be served concurrently or consecutively and the possible dismissal of other connected charges at sentencing.
Zimmerman was originally charged with second-degree murder after authorities said he entered Reinarts and Trescott’s Hanska home on Nov. 2, 2025, and shot them with a shotgun. A grand jury later indicted Zimmerman on nine felony counts, including two counts each of first-degree premeditated murder, first-degree felony murder and second-degree intentional murder. He also faced first-degree burglary and second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.
According to the court complaint, Trescott’s 13-year-old son called 911 after hearing an argument and a gunshot and the boy told authorities that Zimmerman had broken into the home and shot his mother. Authorities said Zimmerman also pointed the shotgun at the boy and ordered him back into his room.
Zimmerman and Trescott had reportedly previously been in a relationship and prosecutors included the domestic-abuse-related first-degree murder charge based on an alleged past pattern of domestic conduct involving Trescott.
After the shootings, Zimmerman fled the area and was later located in Iowa, where an officer attempted to stop his vehicle and Zimmerman reportedly fired back at them. The officer was not injured, and Zimmerman was taken into custody after a pursuit that lasted roughly 12 hours.
Zimmerman’s sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 5 and the amount of restitution owed to the victims will also be determined.