St. Cloud, Minnesota – A 31-year-old Minnesota man has been accused of attempting to kill his roommate in a violent early-morning attack, allegedly shooting the 44-year-old victim multiple times as he slept and injuring another man who tried to intervene. The suspect, Austin Robert Gerads, now faces multiple felony charges in connection with the disturbing incident.
Incident Overview
According to police, the terrifying sequence unfolded around 4:20 a.m. on Sunday when officers with the St. Cloud Police Department responded to a home in the 800 block of 8th Avenue South following reports of a possible shooting. Upon entering the residence, first responders found two injured men, ages 44 and 55, both of whom said they were attacked by their roommate, Gerads.
Police confirmed that Gerads was arrested a short time later and has been charged with attempted second-degree murder, second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon, and fleeing a police officer by means other than a motor vehicle. According to the criminal complaint, Gerads allegedly fled on foot when confronted, but officers were able to capture him after a brief pursuit.
Timeline of Events
The victims told police that the situation escalated suddenly and without warning. The 44-year-old victim said he was asleep in his bed when Gerads entered his bedroom and opened fire.
A probable cause affidavit obtained by local media, including details reported by St. Cloud Live, revealed that the victim was shot twice—once in the shoulder and once in the face. The second bullet reportedly grazed his cheek, narrowly avoiding a fatal injury.
Meanwhile, the 55-year-old victim was assaulted when he attempted to intervene. Police said he was struck in the head with an object believed to be a metal pole.
Details From Police and Investigators
Emergency responders transported the shooting victim to St. Cloud Hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The second victim was evaluated at the scene and found to have similar non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators recovered several items from inside the home, including a handgun, bullets, spent shell casings, a bloodied metal pole, and a baggie containing suspected methamphetamine. Authorities believe the firearm collected at the scene was used in the attack.
According to the affidavit, the younger victim made clear to police that he believed Gerads intended to kill him, stating that the attack began while he was asleep.
“He tried to kill me,” the victim reportedly told officers at the scene.
The report also states that Gerads accused the victim of killing his daughter—a claim authorities later debunked.
After being taken into custody, Gerads allegedly told police the attack was “worth it,” and claimed his daughter was being kept in the basement beneath a trap door. Officers found no evidence to support this claim and confirmed that no one was being held captive inside the home.
(Source integrated naturally: details first reported by St. Cloud Live)
Key Facts of the Case
Police documents highlighted several critical facts about the incident:
- Suspect: Austin Robert Gerads, 31
- Victims: Men ages 44 and 55
- Charges: Attempted second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, fleeing police
- Weapon: Handgun recovered at the scene
- Injuries: Both victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries
- Location: 800 block of 8th Avenue South, St. Cloud
Witness Accounts
The 44-year-old shooting victim described a harrowing fight for survival. After the second shot grazed his face, Gerads allegedly pistol-whipped him. The victim was able to knock the firearm away, leading to a struggle that ended with him gaining control of the weapon and throwing it aside.
During this struggle, the 55-year-old roommate entered the room and was attacked. Police believe he was hit with the metal pole later found with blood on it.
Additional Context
Authorities noted that incidents involving violence between roommates can escalate quickly, especially when narcotics are potentially involved. The presence of suspected methamphetamine at the scene has added another layer to the investigation. Police have not yet confirmed whether drug use played a direct role in the attack, but such substances are known to increase paranoia and violent behavior.
Officials also emphasized the importance of calling 911 immediately when violence breaks out in shared living spaces, as swift police response can prevent further harm.
Public Safety Awareness
Situations like this highlight the risks associated with domestic disputes within shared homes. Experts advise:
- Be aware of escalating tensions
- Report threats or concerning behavior early
- Seek help when living with someone exhibiting violent or delusional behavior
- Keep emergency numbers accessible
Community safety groups stress that early intervention can prevent dangerous encounters like the one reported in St. Cloud.
Conclusion
The investigation into the attack remains ongoing as authorities analyze evidence and await additional statements. Both victims are expected to recover, while Austin Robert Gerads remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Have you ever witnessed or experienced violence in a shared living situation? Share your experiences in the comments below.
