The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has now identified the officers involved in the fatal Crookston incident on June 30. As reported by a state publication, Officer Nick Fladland discharged his Taser and service weapon during the altercation, which resulted in the death of 44-year-old Christopher Ryan Junkin. The University of North Dakota Forensic Pathology ruled Junkin's death a result of multiple gunshot wounds.
Also identified in the release were Officer Corey Rich, who also deployed his Taser, and Polk County Deputy April Hansen, who used a chemical irritant and a Taser. Fladland, a five-year veteran of the force, is currently on critical incident leave. Rich and Hansen bring two and 14 years of experience, respectively, to their roles within law enforcement. The initial investigation suggested that Junkin was breaking items inside a homeless shelter when officers arrived in response to reports of an altercation.
Despite officers' commands to cease and to put his hands behind his back, Junkin reportedly continued his aggressive behavior. Subsequently, Fladland, Rich, and Hansen utilized Tasers, with Hansen resorting shortly to also use of a chemical irritant. The situation escalated as Junkin followed the officers down a hallway. It was at this juncture that Fladland fired his handgun, striking Junkin. Efforts were made to provide medical aid, but Junkin was pronounced dead at the scene.
As part of the active investigation, BCA crime scene personnel have collected evidence including cartridge casings, and are currently reviewing footage captured by body cameras worn by the officers involved. Although decision to quickly take this action must have been profound, the details of the shooting are still under review, and the BCA has not yet made any charging recommendations. The BCA is set to present its findings to the Polk County Attorney's Office following the completion of its investigation.
