According to court records, 39-year-old Ochert Van Der Walt has been charged with first- and second-degree assault. Authorities say the case stems from an incident on August 30, 2025, during a gathering at a rural residence.
Investigators report that both Van Der Walt and the victim are originally from South Africa and are in Minnesota on work visas. The statement of probable cause says a barbecue was underway at the victim’s home when Van Der Walt became upset and returned to his residence near Lake Bronson.
The victim later went to Van Der Walt’s residence to confront him. A struggle followed, and the two men fought over a shotgun. During the altercation, the weapon discharged. The victim suffered a graze wound to his left leg and a serious injury to his right calf. He was treated for significant trauma but survived the incident.
Authorities have not released details on what sparked the confrontation. Van Der Walt was arrested and charged following the investigation. If convicted, he faces lengthy prison terms on the felony assault counts.
The Kittson County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case. Court proceedings are now underway in the Ninth Judicial District.
For more information on Minnesota assault statutes, visit the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
