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Big Lake Today
By the People, for the People
Man Convicted of Killing Mother in Brutal Big Lake Attack
Eric Jordahl found guilty of 1st-degree premeditated murder and 2nd-degree murder in 2020 killing of Rosalie Johnson.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:11am
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A grim reminder of the violent details that emerged from the trial of a man accused of killing his own mother.Big Lake TodayA 26-year-old Big Lake man, Eric Jordahl, has been convicted of killing his mother, Rosalie Johnson, in a brutal 2020 attack in their home. Jordahl was found guilty of 1st-degree premeditated murder and 2nd-degree murder after a judge heard arguments from both sides. The judge's findings state that Jordahl beat, stabbed, and began to cannibalize his mother while she was still alive.
Why it matters
This case has drawn significant attention due to the disturbing nature of the crime and the mental health issues surrounding the defendant. It raises questions about the role of mental illness in violent crimes and the legal system's approach to such cases.
The details
According to the judge's findings, Jordahl beat his mother, Rosalie Johnson, with blunt force, stabbed her several times, and then began to cut up and cannibalize her while she was still alive. A medical examiner determined that Johnson died from multiple sharp and blunt force injuries to her head, neck, and torso.
- The incident occurred in 2020 in the family's Big Lake home.
- Jordahl has undergone several mental competency examinations since the killing.
- In May 2024, a judge determined Jordahl was competent to face the charges.
- Jordahl's defense attorney gave notice of a mental illness defense in August 2024.
- The judge's verdict was delivered on April 9, 2026.
The players
Eric Jordahl
A 26-year-old Big Lake man who was convicted of killing his mother, Rosalie Johnson, in a brutal 2020 attack.
Rosalie Johnson
The mother of Eric Jordahl, who was killed by her son in a brutal 2020 attack in their Big Lake home.
Sherburne County Judge
The judge who presided over the case and found Eric Jordahl guilty of 1st-degree premeditated murder and 2nd-degree murder.
What’s next
A one-day court trial will be held on Monday to consider Jordahl's defense of mental illness or cognitive impairment.
The takeaway
This disturbing case highlights the complex intersection of mental health, violence, and the criminal justice system. It raises important questions about how to balance public safety, individual rights, and the role of mental illness in such tragic crimes.
