Willmar Man’s Death Ruled Homicide After Being Tased During Eviction

(KNSI) — The death of a 75-year-old Willmar man who was tased by police during an eviction has been ruled a homicide.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension says two Kandiyohi County sheriff’s deputies and two Willmar police officers went to Michael Yanacheak’s apartment the morning of January 29th to perform a court-ordered eviction. They tried to get him to open the door, but he didn’t respond. After about an hour, the apartment manager pried open the door, and officers went inside. They found Yanacheak in a bedroom, where he picked up a kitchen knife and walked towards them. Police tried to retreat out of the apartment, but at one point, a Taser was deployed, striking Yanacheak.

The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office says Yanacheak fell after he was shocked and hit his head on a table. The officers provided medical care at the scene until Yanacheak could be taken to the hospital, where he later died. The autopsy says Yanacheak died from blunt force trauma to the head.

Officials with the BCA said the officer involved was placed on administrative leave. The investigation is ongoing.

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