Authorities in International Falls are investigating a tragic incident after two people were found deceased inside a residence early Friday morning.
According to the Koochiching County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy on routine patrol around 4:40 a.m. noticed a vehicle running in the driveway of a home in the 4100 block of Highway 11. Officials said the deputy recognized the vehicle as being connected to a protection order involving the vehicle’s owner and someone at the residence.
Concerned by the situation, deputies attempted to make contact with anyone inside the home. When there was no response, additional officers from the International Falls Police Department arrived to assist.
Authorities say officers ultimately entered the residence to check on the occupants. Inside, they discovered two individuals who were unresponsive. Both were later confirmed deceased.
The sheriff’s office identified the individuals as 35-year-old Ashley E. Kittelson and 44-year-old Nicholas D. Kittelson, both residents of International Falls. Investigators say preliminary findings indicate the incident appears to be a domestic-related case involving a firearm.
Officials noted that the investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting with the investigation, along with the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office, which will conduct examinations to confirm the causes of decease
Law enforcement officials say no additional information is being released at this time while the investigation continues.
Tragic incidents like this often leave communities searching for answers and ways to support families facing difficult situations. As investigators work to understand what happened, an important question remains: what resources and community support systems can help prevent domestic conflicts from escalating into tragedy?
