PEQUOT LAKES, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) – A Pequot Lakes man faces two felony assault charges after allegedly following a father and son and pointing a loaded AR-style rifle at them.
According to court documents, Joshua David Nelson, 45, was arrested following the October 7, 2026, confrontation.
The incident reportedly occurred near Highway 371 and West Twin Lake Drive, south of Pequot Lakes.
Investigators allege Nelson approached the victims while carrying a rifle and made statements about demons.
Father and Son Report Being Followed
At approximately 9:11 a.m., authorities received a report about a man threatening two people with a firearm.
According to the criminal complaint, the victims had recently left Lakes Latte in Pequot Lakes.
The father and son reported that a black GMC pickup began following their vehicle closely.
They continued southbound on Highway 371 before turning onto West Twin Lake Drive.
When they stopped, the pickup reportedly pulled in behind them.
Man Allegedly Points AR-Style Rifle
According to the complaint, a man wearing a purple shirt exited the GMC pickup carrying an AR-style rifle.
The firearm reportedly had a magazine inserted.
The suspect approached the driver’s side window and allegedly pointed the rifle at both occupants.
While pointing the weapon, the man reportedly shouted, “demons get out.”
The father quickly drove away from the confrontation.
When officers arrived, they observed that the father appeared frightened and was visibly shaking.
The victims provided investigators with a description of the suspect and his vehicle.
Police Locate Suspect in Pequot Lakes
Officers later spotted a vehicle matching the description traveling eastbound on East Sibley Street.
Police followed the GMC pickup until it stopped along Rasmussen Road between Butler Street and East Woodman Street.
Officers ordered the driver out of the vehicle, and he complied.
The driver was identified as Joshua David Nelson.
According to the complaint, Nelson told investigators he had a loaded Smith & Wesson revolver in his front pocket.
Officers removed the firearm and detained Nelson.
Suspect Makes Statements About Demons
After receiving his Miranda warning, Nelson agreed to speak with investigators.
According to court documents, Nelson claimed he was trying to help people by removing what he described as evil entities.
He reportedly told officers that he believed the two people he followed were demons.
Nelson allegedly admitted chasing their vehicle and confronting them with his .300 Blackout AR-style firearm.
He also admitted pointing the weapon at both occupants, according to the complaint.
When questioned about the firearm, Nelson reportedly stated that it was loaded.
Investigators also documented his statements about following other vehicles during the previous evening.
Additional Weapons Discovered
During a search of Nelson’s pickup, officers reportedly discovered three additional firearms, ammunition, magazines, and a bow.
Investigators also located a costume-style vest displaying the words “Livestock Agent.”
According to the complaint, an acquaintance told investigators that Nelson’s behavior had become increasingly concerning in recent weeks.
The individual expressed concerns about personal and family safety.
Two Felony Assault Charges Filed
Nelson faces two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.
Each felony charge carries a maximum penalty of seven years in prison, a $14,000 fine, or both.
Under Minnesota Statute 609.222, assault involving a dangerous weapon is classified as second-degree assault.
The case is filed in Crow Wing County District Court under court file number 18-CR-26-3771.
The complaint includes an order of detention.
All allegations remain unproven. Nelson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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