fbpx
facebook app symbol  twitter  linkedin  instagram 1
 

RED LAKE INDIAN RESERVATION — A Red Lake Nation Police Officer was shot and killed on Tuesday while on duty. The officer has been identified as Ryan Bialke, a non-tribal member. The incident occurred east of Redby, Minn. on the Red Lake Indian Reservation.

“It is with heavy hearts to announce that the Red Lake Nation lost a police officer this morning,” said the Red Lake Tribal Council in a statement. “Chairman Seki is directing all Tribal Programs and Businesses to lower flags to half-staff throughout this week. Sincere condolences to family and friends. Prayers and strength to the Red Lake Nation during this difficult time.”

Want more Native News? Get the free daily newsletter today.

The Red Lake Tribal Police Department did not provide a comment as of press time in regards to the incident, but is expected to make a statement soon. One person is in custody in connection with the incident.

In 2005, a shooting spree occurred on the Red Lake Indian Reservation killing ten people in various locations including the Red Lake High School.

“I know I’m going to miss the happiness you brought to me each time we would visit,” said Dana Lyons of Ryan Bialke in a Facebook post. “One of the best men I knew in my life, a good father and a person with a really big heart.” 

“Agents from our office are investigating a shooting that occurred early this morning on the Red Lake Indian Reservation, said the FBI Minneapolis Office. “RLPD officers were responding to a call at a residence when a subject fired a weapon killing an officer. Subject is in custody. Investigation is underway.”
 
The Red Lake Nation has full sovereignty over its reservation and is exempt from Public Law 280, subject only to the federal government. Felony crimes are investigated and prosecuted by the United States Department of Justice.
 

This is a developing story. 

More Stories Like This

Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Native News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Rep. Mary Peltola's Reelection Race Still to be Called
Native News Online Post-Election Survey Shows Trump-Harris Split, Reservation Divide
Six Native American Women Making a Difference in Indian Country

Support Independent Indigenous Journalism That Holds Power to Account

With the election now decided, Native News Online is recommitting to our core mission:  rigorous oversight of federal Indian policy and its impact on tribal communities.  

The previous Trump administration’s record on Indian Country — from the reduction of sacred sites to aggressive energy development on tribal lands — demands heightened vigilance as we enter this new term. Our Indigenous-centered newsroom will provide unflinching coverage of policies affecting tribal sovereignty, sacred site protection, MMIR issues, water rights, Indian health, and economic sovereignty.  

This critical watchdog journalism requires resources. Your support, in any amount, helps maintain our independent, Native-serving news coverage.  Every contribution helps keep our news free for all of our relatives. Please donate today to ensure Native News Online can thrive and deliver impactful, independent journalism

About The Author
Author: Darren ThompsonEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Darren Thompson (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwe) is a staff reporter for Native News Online who is based in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Thompson has reported on political unrest, tribal sovereignty, and Indigenous issues for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, Indian Country Today, Native News Online, Powwows.com and Unicorn Riot. He has contributed to the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Voice of America on various Indigenous issues in international conversation. He has a bachelor’s degree in Criminology & Law Studies from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.