Mother and son from Fertile, MN charged in fatal overdose investigation

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A mother and son from Fertile, Minnesota have been charged in connection with a fatal cocaine overdose that occurred in Crookston on February 1. 28-year-old Chase Donaldson faces five counts, while his 62-year-old mother Darla Donaldson is charged with three counts, including possessing and selling a controlled substance. The investigation revealed the Donaldsons provided the cocaine that led to the overdose death of a woman at the home of 38-year-old Alex Kaiser, who is also facing charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing opioid and drug crisis in rural Minnesota, where small communities have been hit hard by the rise in overdoses and drug-related crimes. It also raises questions about the role of family members in enabling and profiting from the drug trade, even when it leads to tragic consequences.

The details

According to court records, the woman who overdosed told investigators that Kaiser had been providing her with cocaine for years. Authorities learned that Darla Donaldson had given Kaiser $5,000 three weeks earlier to purchase a large quantity of cocaine, which he then provided to the woman on February 1. A search of the Donaldsons' home uncovered two jars with suspected cocaine, as well as marijuana, hallucinogenic mushrooms, guns and ammunition. Both Chase and Darla Donaldson tested positive for cocaine.

• The overdose incident occurred on February 1, 2026 in Crookston, Minnesota.
• Darla Donaldson gave Alex Kaiser $5,000 to purchase cocaine three weeks prior to the February 1 overdose.

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Chase and Darla Donaldson at their upcoming court hearings.