WILLISTON, ND (trfnews.i234.me) – A routine dog fight turned into a dramatic gunfight in Williston on August 21, leaving one dog dead and two men facing serious charges. Williston Police were dispatched to the 1700 block of 29th Street West around 10:30 a.m. following reports of a firearm-related altercation.
Upon arrival, officers discovered two men, Ricky James Williams, 66, and Geoffry Paul Harstad, 64, both from Williston, engaged in a heated argument with weapons drawn. A dead dog was found at the scene.
The confrontation began when Harstad’s dog was involved in a fight with Williams’ dog. After separating the animals, Williams allegedly retrieved a handgun and shot Harstad’s dog. In response, Harstad went back to his property, fetched his own firearm, and fired a shot near Williams’ trailer.
Both men complied with police commands and were detained without further incident. Williams faces charges of Reckless Endangerment (Class C Felony), Animal Cruelty (Class C Felony), and Discharge of a Firearm Within City Limits (Class B Misdemeanor). Harstad is charged with the Discharge of a Firearm Within City Limits (Class B Misdemeanor).