(ST. PAUL) — University of North Dakota Forensic Pathology has identified the man killed June 30 in a use-of-force incident in Crookston, Minn. According to the forensic pathologist, Christopher Ryan Junkin, 44, died of multiple gunshot wounds.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has identified the law enforcement officers who used force during this incident.
- Crookston police officer Nick Fladland deployed his Taser and fired his department handgun. He has five years of law enforcement experience. He is on critical incident leave.
- Crookston police officer Corey Rich deployed his Taser. He has two years of law enforcement experience.
- Polk County deputy April Hansen deployed a chemical irritant and her Taser. She has 14 years of law enforcement experience.
According to the preliminary investigation, Crookston police officers and Polk County sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of men fighting at a homeless shelter. When they arrived, they made contact with Junkin, who was actively breaking items inside the shelter including furniture. Junkin ignored their verbal commands to stop and put his hands behind his back. Fladland, Rich and Hansen all deployed their Tasers during the incident. Hansen also deployed a chemical irritant like pepper spray. The officers and deputies backed down a hallway and Junkin followed them. At one point, Fladland fired his handgun, striking Junkin. The officers provided medical care but Junkin died at the scene.
BCA crime scene personnel recovered cartridge casings at the scene. The officers and deputies were wearing body cameras that captured portions of the incident. BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of the active investigation.
The Crookston Police Department asked the BCA to investigate this incident. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Polk County Attorney’s Office for review.
