Joshua Hatlak

How they died

Deadly force

Area police had been advised to be on the lookout for Joshua Hatlak, who had reportedly walked out of a preliminary hearing on charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct the day before. According to police, Hatlak was a passenger in a van that was pulled over by Auburn officers, who called MSP troopers for assistance. Hatlak allegedly made motions to kill himself with a butcher knife before charging at police. Two troopers shot Hatlak four times. Officials said Hatlak continued to come at troopers and yell after being shot the first time, telling them to "come on." After being shot the second time, Hatlak said, "God forgive me," officials said.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Joshua Hatlak, and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources