Beltrami County, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — On Monday, May 19, 2025, emergency responders were dispatched to the Courtyard Apartments at 1300 America Avenue in Bemidji, Minnesota, following reports of a strong gas odor. Upon arrival, they discovered the body of 41-year-old Benjamin D. Martinez inside one of the units. A woman and a young child were also found in the apartment and were transported to Sanford Bemidji Medical Center for treatment; both have since been released.
While initial assessments suggested that Martinez died from a drug overdose, the Bemidji Police Department, in collaboration with the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, is treating the case as a homicide.
Minnesota Energy responded to the scene and determined there was no gas leak, allowing residents to return to their apartments.
Authorities have stated that there is no apparent threat to the public.
Did you know?
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The Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force is a multi-agency unit in northern Minnesota dedicated to combating drug-related crimes and has been instrumental in numerous investigations across the region.
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Beltrami County, encompassing Bemidji, is known for its efforts to address substance abuse issues through community programs and law enforcement initiatives.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.