State trooper injured in assault during Faribault County traffic stop

A State Patrol trooper suffered injuries in an assault Thursday afternoon during a traffic stop in Faribault County, authorities said.

During the stop on Interstate 90 east of Blue Earth and west of Hwy. 254, the trooper was assaulted by several occupants of the vehicle, who then fled the scene, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

A pursuit began after the assault but was called off a short time later, said a DPS news release. The vehicle was found abandoned in Albert Lea, and later two suspects were arrested.

The injured trooper, who remained conscious, was taken to United Hospital in Blue Earth, where he was listed in stable condition.

The Albert Lea Tribune reported Thursday night that police in that city were alerted to the chase as the suspects' vehicle approached the city. According to Albert Lea Public Safety Director J.D. Carlson, the suspects were seen throwing several bricks of marijuana out of their vehicle on the interstate and on Bridge Avenue in Albert Lea, the Tribune reported.

The men were arrested at the Sportsman's Tavern on E. Clark Street in Albert Lea, Carlson told the Tribune. After spotting the men in the tavern, an employee went outside and waved a police officer over.

"The thoughts and prayers of the entire Minnesota State Patrol are with our trooper tonight," said Col. Matt Langer, chief of the Minnesota State Patrol. "We want to thank all law enforcement involved in the search for the suspects and are grateful the suspects are in custody and off the streets."

Authorities have not released the names of the injured trooper and the two suspects in custody.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting in the investigation.