Info Released on Incident Where Morrison Co. Deputy Wounded Suspect with Knife

The Minnesota BCA has released more information about a Morrison County “officer-involved force” incident.

The BCA says 33-year-old John Gans of Rice suffered wounds from a knife. He remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Morrison County Sheriff’s Deputy Axel Lange used force during this incident with his knife. Lange has six years of law enforcement experience and is on critical incident leave.

The BCA says that according to a preliminary investigation, Lange pulled over Gans at about 10:30 p.m. on May 25 for speeding and suspected driving while intoxicated. After administering a field sobriety test, Lange told Gans he was under arrest for DWI.

When Lange tried to place Gans in handcuffs, Gans resisted and pulled away. The two began to scuffle, and Gans reportedly tried to take Lange’s handgun.

At one point during the more than five minute scuffle, after telling Gans to let go of his gun, Lange used his knife. Lange said he was unable to draw his firearm.

Lange and responding backup officers provided lifesaving care at the scene until Gans could be taken to the hospital for treatment.

The BCA recovered Lange’s knife at the scene. His body-worn and squad car camera captured portions of the incident, and BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of their active investigation.

The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office asked the BCA to investigate this incident. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Morrison County Attorney’s Office for review.