No charges filed against parents of rural Wadena 3-year-old who fatally shot himself

OTTER TAIL COUNTY, Minnesota -- The Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office announced that no criminal charges will be filed against the parents of Rudy Sweere, a three-year-old boy from rural Wadena who tragically died from an accidental, self-inflicted gunshot wound in December 2024. The decision followed an investigation into the incident.

On December 29, 2024, emergency services were alerted to the shooting. Upon arrival, responders found the child with a gunshot wound to the head. Despite being transported to a medical facility, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

Investigators revealed that the family's residence had childproof safety mechanisms, including secured doors and cabinets. Unfortunately, during a brief lapse, a childproof door was left partially open, granting the child unsupervised access. A firearm was stored in a closed drawer when the incident occurred.

According to the press release, the Otter Tail County Attorney's Office determined there was insufficient evidence to support a prosecution since Minnesota law requires proof of negligence in safe firearm storage. It would need to be shown that the parents acted unreasonably or failed to take expected precautions under similar circumstances.

The release expressed condolences for the family, emphasizing the tragic nature of the incident. The Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office also reiterated the importance of firearm safety, urging responsible storage practices to prevent access by children.