WEST FARGO, ND (trfnews.i234.me) – Early Saturday morning, tragedy struck outside Prairie Heights Community Church in West Fargo when 25-year-old Austin Strom was shot during an altercation involving three people. The incident occurred at 7:48 a.m., and police are still investigating the circumstances.
Austin’s mother, Robin Strom, shared that her son had recently moved back to Browerville, Minnesota, but continued to drive over two hours to attend and serve at Prairie Heights, a church he deeply loved. On Friday night, Austin told his mother he was “home,” a sentiment she understood to mean he was at the church. His final message to her expressed a sense of peace and fulfillment: “Mom, I am the most serene I have ever been. I am laying at the church reading scripture.”
Austin had struggled with addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges but had overcome many of these battles, including a long-standing gambling addiction. He was working on a book to help others facing similar challenges.
The family is heartbroken and frustrated by the lack of information from the authorities but remains grateful for the support of the church community. Austin’s aunt has set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.
The investigation continues, with police yet to determine if charges will be filed against the two individuals detained at the scene.