In a recent court hearing, Willis Charles McDonald, 31, of Frazee, is facing charges of first-degree manslaughter and second-degree murder following the shooting death of Arlan Ray Bergstrom Jr., 31, of Detroit Lakes. The incident occurred on August 10 at Acorn Lake Trailer Park near Frazee.
McDonald, represented by attorney Blair W. Nelson, claims he acted in self-defense. According to the criminal complaint, McDonald had been at the Becker County Fair earlier that day before visiting a woman, identified as B.V.A., at the trailer park. During their meeting, Bergstrom allegedly approached McDonald’s vehicle, broke the window, and began assaulting him. Fearing for his life, McDonald reached for his handgun and shot Bergstrom.
McDonald was arrested at his home later that morning and was charged on August 12. He posted a $10,000 cash bail and was released under standard conditions. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 14.
The case remains under investigation as McDonald’s attorney prepares for a potentially lengthy legal process.