Driver injured during traffic stop on Saturday. Identified

ST. PAUL (WJON News) — The man and officer involved in the altercation at the traffic stop near Pierz on Saturday have been identified. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) identified the driver of the car as 33 years old. John Gans of Rice, and Morrison County Sheriff's Deputy as Axel Lange.

The sheriff's office says Gans was arrested around 10:30 p.m. Saturday for speeding and suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). After performing sobriety tests, Lange told Gans he was under arrest and attempted to handcuff him. According to the BCA, Gans resisted, moved away and the two began to fight. During the altercation, Gans attempted to take Lange's gun.

Deputy Lange told Gans to drop his gun, and when Gans did not, he used his knife, injuring Gans. The BCA recovered Lange's knife at the scene and is reviewing all available video. Gans remains hospitalized in stable condition, Lange is on critical incident leave and the investigation remains active.

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