Redby Man Charged in Brutal Bemidji Assault Leaves Community in Shock

BEMIDJI, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – Residents of Bemidji, Minnesota were left reeling today as news broke of a horrifying assault that occurred at the Parkplace apartments on Thursday, March 28th, 2024. The victim, a woman whose identity has not been disclosed, was found in a state of unconsciousness, her body bearing severe injuries consistent with a brutal attack.

Oliver Royce Johnson, a 78-year-old resident of Redby, has been charged in connection with the assault, according to court documents. Police responded to a distress call reporting the assault and upon arrival, discovered the victim lying unresponsive on a bed, surrounded by pools of blood. Emergency Medical Services rushed her to the hospital, where it was revealed she had suffered multiple lacerations to her head, likely caused by a blunt object.

Eyewitnesses recounted seeing Johnson, who is believed to be the victim’s boyfriend, at the scene of the crime. Shockingly, Johnson allegedly confessed to the assault when questioned by law enforcement, reportedly stating, “I hit that. I clubbed her. I’m guilty and I get it if I have to go to jail.”

Further evidence of the violent encounter was found within the apartment, as a wooden object, believed to be the weapon used in the assault, was discovered broken into several pieces on a dresser.

As a result of these harrowing events, Johnson now faces serious charges, including assault with a dangerous weapon and inflicting substantial bodily harm. The community of Bemidji is left grappling with the shock and horror of such a violent act occurring within their midst.

Reporting for trfnews.i234.me, I’m Tom Berg, urging our community to come together in support of the victim and to stand against such senseless acts of violence.