The heartbreaking death of 3‑year‑old Koltyn Wayne Bartnes has devastated the Holmesville Township community in Becker County, Minnesota, after investigators confirmed he was killed in a murder‑suicide carried out by his father, 45‑year‑old Gene Russell Bartnes. According to the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the home on Monday afternoon, March 30, 2026, after Gene’s brother went to check on him when he failed to show up for work.
When the brother entered the residence, he discovered Gene deceased and immediately contacted authorities. Deputies arrived and found young Koltyn dead as well. The Medical Examiner later ruled Koltyn’s death a homicide caused by a gunshot wound, while Gene died from a self‑inflicted gunshot wound.
According to family accounts and investigative findings reported by Law & Crime, police believe Koltyn was sound asleep when Gene shot him in the back. After killing his son, Gene reportedly climbed into the bed beside him and shot himself in the chest. The bodies were discovered the following afternoon when Gene’s brother entered the home out of concern.
Authorities confirmed that both father and son were found inside the home in Holmesville Township, and no one else was present at the time of the shooting. Investigators stated that Gene’s brother became alarmed when Gene did not report to work that morning, prompting the welfare check that led to the tragic discovery.
The Becker County Sheriff’s Office publicly identified Koltyn and Gene, confirming the murder‑suicide and ruling out the involvement of any other individuals. Officials stated that the case remains under review, but all evidence supports the conclusion that Gene killed his son before taking his own life.
Koltyn’s family described him as a sweet, cheerful child who loved feeding birds, visiting his grandfathers’ farms, spending time with animals, watching Raww Fishing videos, riding dirt bikes, and admiring Spider‑Man. Loved ones shared emotional tributes, remembering his curls, his smile, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. The community continues to mourn the loss of a little boy whose life was taken far too soon.