Police surround Battle Lake house after man throws firecracker following exchange with neighbor

Police in Battle Lake, Minnesota have arrested a man who admitted to lighting and throwing a firecracker after a dispute with a resident in a neighborhood Friday.

The incident occurred at 9:22 a.m. Friday morning. A complainant and witness told police they believed the 29-year-old male suspect had discharged a handgun while walking on the street.

Witnesses said the discharge occurred after the suspect “exchanged some words with a resident in his front yard,” according to Battle Lake Police Chief Kent Kortlever.

Battle Lake Police, Otter Tail County Sheriff’s deputies, the Minnesota State Patrol and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources surrounded the suspect’s house.

Officers used a PA system to coerce the suspect from the home. The suspect obliged, exiting with another male. The subjects were detained and after conducting interviews, the suspect admitted to lighting and throwing a firecracker in the neighborhood.

Charges have been issued to the 29-year-old man for possession and use of fireworks.