Man Sentenced to Life for Rural Brainerd Murder

Chad Aaron Aanerud pleads guilty to shooting death of Lyle Maske and abduction of pregnant woman and her children

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Chad Aaron Aanerud, a 36-year-old Brainerd man, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of release after 30 years for the November 2024 shooting death of 62-year-old Lyle Maske. Aanerud also received additional sentences for kidnapping, burglary, and assault charges related to the abduction of a pregnant woman, Nikkole Dobson, and her four children. The incident began when Aanerud argued with Dobson, sexually assaulted her, and then shot Maske when he confronted Aanerud. Aanerud then forced Dobson and her children into a van at gunpoint and fled the scene.

Why it matters

This case highlights the devastating impact of gun violence and domestic abuse in rural communities. The murder of Lyle Maske and the traumatic abduction of Nikkole Dobson and her children have deeply affected the local Brainerd area, raising concerns about public safety and the need for stronger intervention and support services for victims of violent crimes.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, on November 1, 2024, Aanerud shot and killed Lyle Maske, who had taken Aanerud into his home and treated him like a grandparent. Aanerud then abducted Dobson and her four children at gunpoint, assaulting Dobson in the process. Aanerud also set fire to Maske's home, which burned to the ground. After a search, Aanerud was arrested near Little Falls, and the stolen firearms and injured victims were found in his van.

  • On November 1, 2024, Aanerud shot and killed Lyle Maske.
  • On November 1, 2024, Aanerud abducted Nikkole Dobson and her four children at gunpoint.
  • On December 17, 2025, Aanerud entered a plea agreement.
  • On February 17, 2026, Aanerud was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of release after 30 years.

The players

Chad Aaron Aanerud

A 36-year-old Brainerd man who was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Lyle Maske and the abduction of Nikkole Dobson and her four children.

Lyle Maske

A 62-year-old man who was shot and killed by Aanerud after Maske confronted Aanerud on his property.

Nikkole Dobson

A pregnant woman who was abducted by Aanerud at gunpoint along with her four children.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You murdered him in cold blood. He went over there to help.”

— Lois Maske, Lyle Maske's wife (Brainerd Dispatch)

“I no longer trust anyone. The incident changed how I now feel, how I see and think about the world.”

— Oldest child victim (Brainerd Dispatch)

“The family bond is gone. Now there is sadness, anxiety and fear. Never again will we have safety in our lives.”

— Parents of Nikkole Dobson (Brainerd Dispatch)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact of gun violence and domestic abuse in rural communities, raising concerns about public safety and the need for stronger intervention and support services for victims of violent crimes.