In the early hours of November 1, 2024, 62-year-old Lyle Maske went to a neighbor’s home near Brainerd, Minnesota, after four children ran to his house seeking safety during a violent attack next door on Loerch Road. Authorities say the suspect, 35-year-old Chad Aanerud, had assaulted the woman, threatened her and the children, and set a house on fire on the property.

While Maske was in the driveway investigating and offering help, he was confronted by Aanerud and was fatally shot; rifle casings were found at the scene. Aanerud then allegedly forced the woman and her four children into a van, stole multiple firearms, and fled. A statewide AMBER Alert led to Aanerud’s capture near Little Falls later that morning; the children were found unharmed and the woman had injuries consistent with physical assault.

Aanerud is charged with multiple counts, including two counts of second-degree murder, first-degree criminal sexual conduct, several kidnappings, and first-degree arson. Family and friends remembered Maske as a hero who died trying to protect his neighbors.

If anyone saw activity on Loerch Road around that time or has information about the events that night, please come forward.