HOLMESVILLE TOWNSHIP, Minn. — Authorities have identified the two people found dead Monday in Holmesville Township and released additional details about the case.
According to an updated release from the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called at about 12:39 p.m. on March 30 after a man went to check on his brother, who had not shown up for work. When he arrived at the residence on County Road 113, he found his brother dead from an apparent gunshot wound.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they also discovered a child who had died from an apparent gunshot wound.
The Becker County Sheriff’s Office said the victims have now been identified as 45-year-old Gene Russell Bartnes and his 3-year-old son, Koltyn Wayne Bartnes, both of Detroit Lakes.
According to the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office, Koltyn Bartnes’ death has been ruled a homicide, while Gene Bartnes’ death has been ruled a suicide.
Authorities say the incident appears to be isolated and there is no known threat to the public.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Crime Lab is assisting the Becker County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation continues