A shooting five miles south of St. Michael is being investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs along with the Benson and Ramsey County Sheriff. The shooting happened on the morning of Tuesday, March 4. Three people were reportedly shot. The names of the victims and the assailant are not known at this point.
In response to the shooting, the Spiri Lake Housing Corporation went on lockdown. The message they sent out stated, “We hope this message finds you safe and well. We wish to inform you that due to unforeseen circumstances, our housing building is currently on lockdown. As a result, we will not be opening the doors for anyone for the time being. This measure is being taken to ensure the safety and security of all residents.” CHI St. Alexius Health Devils Lake Hospital and other businesses also went into lockdown.
The Spirit Lake Tribal Council released a statement: “This morning, an incident occurred within the boundaries [of the] Spirit Lake Reservation, and we are currently awaiting details from law enforcement. In the interest of safety, we ask the public to remain calm and shelter in place until further notice. The Spirit Lake Tribal Council will provide updates as more information becomes available. We urge everyone not to approach individuals involved in any suspicious activity and to report such instances to local law enforcement at 701-766-4231.”