ST. PAUL — The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the man who died June 2 after a force incident in Paynesville. The medical examiner determined that Larry Dale Alstead, 80, of Paynesville, sustained multiple gunshot injuries but died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

In addition, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has identified the Stearns County deputy who discharged his firearm during the incident. The sheriff’s department has placed him on critical incident leave. 

• Sgt. Paul Orvis discharged his handgun. Orvis has 23 years of law enforcement experience.

According to the BCA’s preliminary investigation, the Paynesville Police Department, Stearns County Sheriff’s Office and Cold Spring Police Department responded on June 2 just after 9 p.m. to a home on the 600 block of Stearns Avenue in Paynesville on a report of a domestic assault. 

Upon arrival, officers made contact with an adult female who had visible, non-life-threatening injuries. She reported that her husband, later identified as Alstead, assaulted her and was locked in the basement with a handgun.

Officers attempted to arrest Alstead when he appeared at the bottom of the basement stairs with a handgun. Orvis fired his weapon twice. Alstead then fired a single, self-inflicted gunshot. Officers rendered medical aid, but lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful.

BCA crime scene personnel recovered a handgun and casings at the scene. The officers and deputies were wearing body cameras during the incident. 

The BCA’s investigation of this incident is ongoing. When the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without recommendations on charges to the Stearns County Attorney’s Office for review.