Frazee, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — In a tense and unsettling incident in Frazee, Minnesota, Jaden Pihlaja is now facing a felony burglary charge and a petty misdemeanor for fifth-degree assault after an alleged confrontation involving what appeared to be a firearm.
According to a probable cause statement, on March 16th, a Becker County Deputy was called to a residence on County Road 150 to investigate. The victim, who had recently moved back to his parents’ home due to escalating tensions with Pihlaja, told deputies that Pihlaja showed up uninvited.
The victim reported that Pihlaja was upset because the victim was now dating his ex-girlfriend. After entering the home without permission, Pihlaja allegedly opened his jacket and revealed what appeared to be a handgun, terrifying the victim. The situation de-escalated only after the victim’s parents returned home, prompting Pihlaja to leave, but not before apologizing to the victim’s father, reportedly saying, “Sorry for breaking in, but I needed to talk things out.”
Later, deputies found Pihlaja in his truck. A search revealed that the suspected firearm was actually a black plastic laser surface thermometer, resembling a handgun. Pihlaja has since been officially charged.
Further court proceedings are pending.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Did you know?
- In Minnesota, burglary in the first degree can carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
- Fifth-degree assault is often charged when there’s no actual physical harm but perceived threats.
- Many non-lethal objects, such as thermometers or tools, have been mistaken for firearms during police responses.