Retired Trooper Dies by Suicide During Police Standoff

Larry D. Alstead, an 80-year-old retired Minnesota State Patrol trooper, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a confrontation with police at his Paynesville, Minnesota home during a domestic violence call on June 2. Officers responded after Alstead allegedly assaulted his wife, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and found him armed and barricaded in the basement. During their attempt to arrest him, Sgt. Paul Orvis of the Stearns County Sheriff's Office fired his weapon twice when Alstead appeared with a handgun; Alstead then shot himself. Officers provided medical aid, but Alstead died at the scene. The incident, recorded on body-worn cameras, is being investigated by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Sgt. Orvis is on critical incident leave. Local officials have also highlighted support resources for those affected by domestic violence or emotional distress.