Trooper Donald Bert Ziesmer

Donald Bert Ziesmer

Trooper Donald Ziesmer was shot and killed while making a traffic stop of a van on Highway 61 near Tofte.

One of the occupants exited the van and opened fire with a .22 caliber rifle, striking Trooper Ziesmer while he was still sitting in his patrol car. The man then committed suicide.

Trooper Ziesmer had served with the Minnesota State Patrol for 13 years. He was survived by his wife and three daughters.