Minnesota Trooper Assaulted During Traffic Stop: State Patrol

FARIBAULT COUNTY, MN — Investigators say a trooper from the Minnesota State Patrol was assaulted Thursday afternoon during a traffic stop on Interstate 90 west of Highway 254 and east of Blue Earth.

The trooper was injured by occupants of the vehicle during the stop, according to police.

The vehicle then fled the scene, authorities said. A pursuit began after the assault but was called off a short time later.

The vehicle was located abandoned in Albert Lea and two suspects were later taken into custody, according to authorities.

The trooper was transported to United Hospital in Blue Earth. He was reported to be conscious and stable when transported.

“The thoughts and prayers of the entire Minnesota State Patrol are with our trooper tonight,” Col. Matt Langer, chief of the Minnesota State Patrol, said in a statement.

“We want to thank all law enforcement involved in the search for the suspects and are grateful the suspects are in custody and off the streets.”

Authorities have not yet released the name of the trooper involved or the two suspects in custody.

Several southern Minnesota law enforcement agencies assisted in the search for the suspects. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting in the investigation, according to a news release.

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