A Cass County sheriff’s deputy was shot and airlifted to a hospital after an incident in rural Walker on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 16. The situation also resulted in the death of a male subject. According to Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk, deputies responded to a 911 call at 4:37 p.m. reporting gunfire near homes along Old Agency Drive and Onigum Road Northwest in Turtle Lake Township.
When deputies arrived, they began investigating the area and soon encountered a male walking in the 8000 block of Onigum Road Northwest. The man fled on foot as deputies approached, sparking a foot chase. During the pursuit, an exchange of gunfire occurred. The deputy involved was shot and quickly airlifted to a Fargo, North Dakota, hospital for treatment. The male subject was pronounced dead at the scene.
The sheriff’s office confirmed that body-worn cameras were active during the incident, which will provide important information for the investigation. Following standard procedure, the deputies involved have been placed on critical incident leave while authorities examine the events leading up to the shooting.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension responded to the scene and is leading the investigation into the incident. The sheriff’s office said additional details, including the identities of the deputy and the male subject, have not been released. Authorities plan to share more information as the investigation continues.
The incident has raised concerns within the community, highlighting the risks law enforcement officers face when responding to potentially dangerous situations. While details remain limited, officials emphasize the importance of following the ongoing investigation before drawing conclusions.
This incident is a reminder of the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety and the challenges officers encounter in rural areas where help may take longer to arrive. Community members in the area were urged to remain cautious and allow authorities to handle the investigation thoroughly.
As the investigation continues, the sheriff’s office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension are expected to provide updates on the circumstances surrounding the shooting, the identities of those involved, and any additional information about the events leading up to the fatal confrontation. The community awaits answers while hoping for the deputy’s full recovery.
