Glyndon Man Charged After Shots Fly Over Hunters

Glyndon, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — A Glyndon man faces two felony charges after allegedly firing toward three pheasant hunters on public land.

Authorities say the shooting happened Sunday, October 25, 2026, in rural Clay County.

Cole Lee Vanderlinden, 43, allegedly continued firing after hunters warned him that people were nearby.

The hunters reported bullets passing overhead as they searched for cover in thick vegetation.

Hunters Report Gunfire Near Their Location

Clay County Sheriff’s deputies responded to several 911 calls from the 300 block of 170th Street North.

Three hunters told investigators they were walking through brush and cattails when gunfire began.

The shots reportedly came from the direction of nearby homes.

According to the criminal complaint, the hunters were wearing blaze-orange clothing and hats.

The group began shouting to warn the shooter about their location.

One hunter also fired a warning shot into the air.

Another hunter reportedly approached within about 50 yards of Vanderlinden and told him to stop shooting.

Despite the warning, Vanderlinden allegedly continued firing toward the area.

The hunters retreated into the cattails for protection.

One hunter told investigators he feared for his life during the incident.

Deputies Find Rifle and Suspected Drugs

Deputies arrived and spotted Vanderlinden near a vehicle while holding an AR-style rifle equipped with a scope.

They ordered him to place the weapon on the ground.

Vanderlinden complied but later argued with deputies before being detained, according to the complaint.

Investigators searched the property and reported finding several weapons and ammunition.

The items included an AR-style rifle, a shotgun, and ammunition for both firearms.

Glyndon Man Charged After Shots Fly Over Hunters

Investigators also found two small bags containing a substance suspected to be methamphetamine.

The substance tested positive for methamphetamine during a preliminary field test, according to the complaint.

Investigators Estimate 15 to 20 Shots

Authorities believe at least 15 rounds were fired during the encounter.

Initial reports suggested the number of shots could have reached approximately 20.

The complaint alleges the shots endangered the hunters despite their repeated warnings.

No injuries were reported in the available accounts of the incident.

Two Felony Charges Filed in Clay County

Vanderlinden was charged in Clay County District Court with intentional discharge of a firearm that endangers safety.

That felony carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

He also faces a fifth-degree controlled substance possession charge.

The drug charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

According to KFGO’s October 26 report, court records listed bail at $3,000 with release conditions.

Readers can find public case information through Minnesota Court Records Online.

Pending criminal cases may require a case number for online access.

The Clay County inmate roster also provides public custody information.

The charges remain allegations. Vanderlinden is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.