Norman Township, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — A chaotic and dangerous scene unfolded this morning just outside Duluth in Norman Township, leading to a deadly officer-involved shooting and a major law enforcement response after an armed suspect allegedly set fire to multiple homes and opened fire on responders.
According to St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay, the situation began around 9:20 a.m. when a 911 call reported that a man had sprayed a family member with gasoline and set their home on fire near Heritage Trail and East Pioneer Road.
Timeline of Events:
-
9:20 a.m. – Initial 911 call: Neighbor reports arson and assault.
-
Shortly after – Second report: Same suspect was armed with a rifle and had set a second home on fire.
-
A solo volunteer firefighter responded quickly, helping to extinguish fires at both homes, but then heard gunshots and sheltered in place.
-
9:36 a.m. – A Duluth Township officer arrived and was fired upon by the suspect, but was not injured and did not return fire.
-
9:52 a.m. – Five St. Louis County deputies approached the area when the suspect engaged them, prompting a use-of-force incident. All five deputies returned fire, fatally striking the suspect.
Deputies rendered aid, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
What Was Found:
-
Investigators discovered multiple homemade devices believed to be intended to fire projectiles at first responders.
-
All five deputies involved were wearing body-worn cameras and have been placed on administrative leave per standard procedure.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has taken over the investigation.
“I am grateful no innocent neighbors, firefighters, deputies, or law enforcement were hurt or killed today. This was a chaotic and very dangerous situation,” Sheriff Ramsay stated. “Our deputies used their training, experience, and teamwork to protect the community.”
No further details are available at this time, but updates will come directly from the Minnesota BCA.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.