Duluth Police Fatally Shoot Man Linked to Earlier Homicide

Authorities identify 30-year-old Donald Felver as the suspect killed in use-of-force incident

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Midwest Medical Examiner's Office has identified the man who died during a use-of-force incident in Duluth, Minnesota last Tuesday as 30-year-old Donald Felver. Felver is believed to be connected to an earlier deadly shooting in the city, where he allegedly shot and killed 33-year-old Darius Handy. The incident began when police responded to reports of an erratic driver, leading to a pit maneuver and an exchange of gunfire between Felver and two St. Louis County deputies.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about the use of force by law enforcement and the need for thorough investigations into officer-involved shootings, especially when they are connected to prior violent crimes. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing gun violence and public safety in Duluth.

The details

According to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, St. Louis County Sgt. Joshua Berndt and Deputy Matthew Sobczak both fired their department-issued firearms during the incident. The early investigation found that Felver fired at the officers after a pit maneuver was used on his vehicle. The officers were responding to reports of an erratic driver.

  • The incident occurred last Tuesday in Duluth, Minnesota.
  • The Midwest Medical Examiner's Office identified Felver on February 16, 2026.

The players

Donald Felver

A 30-year-old Duluth resident who was fatally shot by police and is believed to be connected to an earlier homicide in the city.

Darius Handy

A 33-year-old man who was shot and killed in an earlier incident in Duluth, allegedly by Felver.

St. Louis County Sgt. Joshua Berndt

One of the officers who fired his weapon during the use-of-force incident with Felver.

St. Louis County Deputy Matthew Sobczak

One of the officers who fired his weapon during the use-of-force incident with Felver.

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What’s next

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension will continue its investigation into the use-of-force incident and present its findings to the St. Louis County Attorney's Office for review.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the complex and often volatile nature of law enforcement encounters, especially when they involve individuals suspected of prior violent crimes. It underscores the need for comprehensive investigations, transparency, and ongoing efforts to improve public safety and build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.