Koltyn Wayne Bartnes, 3, Killed in Becker County Murder-Suicide; Father Gene Russell Bartnes Identified as Vigil Held in Holmesville Township

Authorities in Becker County have identified a 3-year-old boy who was shot and killed in a murder-suicide involving his father, as family and friends gather to mourn the tragic loss.

The Becker County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Koltyn Wayne Bartnes, 3, died from a gunshot wound ruled a homicide. His father, Gene Russell Bartnes, 45, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Deputies Discover Father and Son Dead

According to authorities, deputies responded to a home in Holmesville Township on Monday afternoon after a man reported checking on his brother, who had failed to show up for work.

When the man arrived, he found his brother deceased. Law enforcement officers responding to the scene also discovered the child dead inside the home.

Officials later confirmed that both father and son suffered gunshot wounds.

Deaths Ruled Murder-Suicide

Investigators determined that Gene Bartnes fatally shot his son before taking his own life. The case has been officially ruled a murder-suicide.

Authorities have not released further details about what led up to the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Community Holds Vigil for Koltyn and His Father

In the wake of the tragedy, dozens of community members gathered on Tuesday, March 31, in Holmesville Township, just outside Detroit Lakes, to honor the lives lost.

Family and friends remembered Koltyn as a joyful and loving child, encouraging attendees to wear Spider-Man-themed clothing—his favorite superhero. Red and blue balloons were released in his memory.

Mother Speaks Out

Koltyn’s mother, Kristi Frazier, shared her heartbreak as she remembered her son.

“This is where my baby took his last breath… He went to bed happy and healthy and knew he was loved,” she said.

She described Koltyn as “fun and full of life,” struggling to understand the tragedy.

“The hardest part is that he trusted him so much… He was only three. He didn’t get a chance to live,” she said.

Remembering Koltyn

A growing memorial of flowers, stuffed animals, and Spider-Man items has been placed near the home, honoring a young life lost too soon.

The home remains closed off as authorities continue their investigation.

A GoFundMe has also been set up to support the family during this difficult time.

Ongoing Investigation

The Becker County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

Officials continue to investigate as the community mourns the devastating loss of both father and son.