Frazee, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — In a case that has drawn significant attention, Willis Charles McDonald, 32, of Frazee, Minnesota, has been sentenced to 60 days in the Becker County Jail and two years of probation following a fatal shooting incident that occurred in August 2024. While McDonald was acquitted of manslaughter charges, he was found guilty of failing to render aid and carrying a pistol without a permit.
The incident took place in the early hours of August 10, 2024, at the Acorn Lake Trailer Park near Frazee. According to court documents, McDonald was visiting a woman at the trailer park when Arlan Ray Bergstrom Jr., 31, approached McDonald’s vehicle, broke the window, and punched him. McDonald stated that he feared for his life, retrieved a handgun from the backseat, and, after an initial misfire, shot Bergstrom in the chest. Bergstrom was pronounced dead at the scene.
McDonald fled the scene but later contacted authorities and was arrested without incident. He admitted to not having a valid permit for the firearm and to consuming alcohol earlier that evening.
The jury’s decision to acquit McDonald of manslaughter but convict him on the lesser charges has sparked discussions about self-defense laws and firearm regulations in Minnesota.
Did You Know?
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In Minnesota, carrying a pistol without a permit is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.
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The state’s self-defense laws require that the use of deadly force be necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
