On July 19, 1978, Kenneth M. Olson, a 25-year-old patrol officer from East Grand Forks, Minnesota, tragically lost his life. Officer Olson and his colleague, Officer Rick Blazek, responded to a prowler call at 2:30 a.m. at 20 Ninth Street Northeast. While investigating the area, they were in a backyard near the alley when a shotgun blast was fired from a window of the residence, approximately 50 to 60 feet away. Officer Olson was struck in the chest and was pronounced dead on arrival at United Hospital in Grand Forks at 2:55 a.m.
The suspect, who was also the individual who reported the prowler, was a 64-year-old man. He was arrested at the scene. The suspect's identity has not been disclosed in the available sources. Officer Olson had been serving with the East Grand Forks Police Department for four years and had previously worked with the Northwood North Dakota Police Department. He was survived by his wife, Bonita, whom he had married just four months prior to his death.
Officer Olson's funeral was held on July 21, 1978, at Augustana Lutheran Church, and he was laid to rest in Arvilla Cemetery in North Dakota. The incident left a profound impact on the community and his fellow officers, who remembered him for his dedication and service. The case highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face daily and the tragic consequences that can arise from such encounters.
