DNR conservation officer dies in the line of duty

A Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conservation officer has died in the line of duty following an incident Friday, April 19 on Cross Lake in Pine City. CO Eugene Wynn, who patrolled the Pine City station, and a deputy with the Pine County sheriff’s office were responding to a report of possibly a body in the water. The two officers launched Wynn’s boat and motored away from shore.

Within a minute, both were thrown from the boat into the water. Rescuers were able to rescue the deputy, who was treated and released from the hospital, but Wynn slipped beneath the water before rescuers could get to him. Wynn’s body was recovered at 1:35 a.m. on April 20.

The Pine County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the incident.

Once called game wardens, conservation officers have protected Minnesota’s natural resources and people since 1887.

Wynn is the 22nd Minnesota conservation officer to die in the line of duty. He had been a conservation officer since 2001. Wynn is survived by his wife and two children.

“I, my children, and Eugene’s parents are so thankful for the support of the first responders, Eugene’s law enforcement community, and my judicial family in response to this great loss,” said Wynn’s wife, Pine County judge Heather Wynn. “I also am grateful to the many others who have reached out to share their love and support. At this time, I ask for your prayers for my family.”