Willmar man’s death ruled homicide after being tased while threatening police officers
The Midwest Medical Examininer’s Office has ruled a Willmar man, Michael James Yanacheak, age 75, died of head injuries sustained in a fall after a deputy deployed a Taser on him during an eviction in late January.
According to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, law enforcement waited an hour for Yanacheak to open the apartment door before the manager pried the door open.
The BCA stated, “When law enforcement entered, they found Yanacheak in a bedroom, where he picked up a kitchen knife and walked towards them. The law enforcement officers tried to retreat out of the apartment, but at one point, Kampsen deployed his Taser, striking Yanacheak.”
Officers provided medical care to Yanacheak at the scene and he was transported to the hospital, where he later died. The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Yanacheak’s death a homicide.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension continues to investigate the Jan. 29 incident, which occurred at Yanacheak’s apartment.