Minnesota State Trooper Attacked; Suspects Seen Throwing Marijuana Bricks From Vehicle
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Two men are in custody Thursday, accused of attacking a Minnesota State Patrol trooper during a traffic stop, then throwing bricks of marijuana out of their vehicle after fleeing the scene.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety says the assault happened west of Highway 254 on Interstate 90 near Blue Earth Thursday afternoon. The trooper pulled over the vehicle with two men inside for an unknown reason. They were then attacked by the passenger before the driver fled the scene. A brief chase occurred, but was quickly called off.
The suspect vehicle, which has California license plates, was later found abandoned in Albert Lea, where the two suspects were eventually found and arrested.
The suspects were seen earlier throwing bricks of marijuana along I-90 and on Bridge Avenue in Albert Lea, according to the city's public safety director. Bricks were later found along the interstate, on Bridge Avenue and near St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea.
The trooper, who has not been identified, is recovering at United Hospital in Blue Earth. The extent of their injuries has not been released.
"The thoughts and prayers of the entire Minnesota State Patrol are with our trooper tonight," said State Patrol Chief Col. Matt Langer.
The suspects have also not been identified. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting in the investigation.