Update on Tragic Shooting Death of 3-Year-Old Rudy Sweere

In a heartbreaking update to a story we covered in December 2024, authorities in Otter Tail County have confirmed additional details surrounding the tragic death of 3-year-old Rudy Sweere, who accidentally shot himself on December 29 in Oak Valley Township near Deer Creek, Minnesota.
The toddler was found with a gunshot wound to the head after getting ahold of a firearm in the family’s home. Both parents were home at the time of the incident. Rudy was transported to a hospital in Wadena, where he was pronounced dead the following morning.
A GoFundMe campaign for funeral expenses initially aimed to raise $8,000, but as of now, it has exceeded $15,000 thanks to the outpouring of community support. The campaign organizer wrote, “On December 29th, the world lost 3.5-year-old Rudy in a tragic accident. Please prayerfully consider helping the Sweere family during this time as they prepare to celebrate the vibrant life of Rudy.”
The incident has prompted renewed calls for stronger gun safety measures, with experts emphasizing the importance of secure firearm storage and education. Mike Price, general manager of Bill’s Gun Shop and Range, advised, “Take the mystery out of guns. Familiarize children with the dangers, and always ensure firearms are locked and secure.”
Lonny Werts, a gun safety instructor, echoed the sentiment, stressing that children should be taught to never trust a gun and always assume it is loaded. He pointed to the importance of using safes, trigger locks, and other security devices to prevent accidents like this one.
The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation into how Rudy accessed the firearm. No arrests have been made, and the case remains ongoing.
This tragedy underscores the critical need for vigilance in firearm safety, especially in homes with children.
Source: Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office, December 29, 2024. Updated January 16, 2025.