URGENT UPDATE: A Cass County sheriff’s deputy who was shot in the line of duty has been released from the hospital and is on the road to recovery. This incident occurred on November 16, 2025, when the deputy sustained a gunshot wound to the upper right thigh during a foot pursuit in Turtle Lake Township, near Old Agency Drive and Onigum Road Northwest.
Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk confirmed the deputy’s release in a statement, saying, “He is expected to make a full recovery. We ask the community to continue to keep him, his family, and all those affected by this tragic incident in your thoughts and prayers.” The sheriff’s office expressed gratitude for the community’s support and well-wishes amidst the ongoing investigation.
The incident unfolded at approximately 4:37 p.m. when a 911 call reported gunfire in the area. Responding deputies quickly launched an investigation and attempted to contact a male subject walking in the 8000 block of Onigum Road Northwest. The suspect fled, prompting a foot chase that resulted in an exchange of gunfire. During this exchange, the deputy was shot and subsequently airlifted to a hospital in Fargo, North Dakota.
Authorities confirmed that the male subject involved in the incident was also shot and died at the scene. Body-worn cameras were activated during the encounter, and deputies involved have been placed on critical incident leave as the investigation proceeds.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is now leading the investigation, with further information expected to be released in the coming days. As this situation develops, the community remains in shock and support for the injured deputy and his family continues to pour in.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds. This incident underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement and the profound impact such events have on local communities.
