St. Louis County Jail inmate death

On January 25, 2026, Darrin John Tiessen (DOB: 04/16/1990) was booked into the St. Louis County Jail by the Sheriff’s Office for an active arrest warrant.  The warrant was issued by the Sixth Judicial District Court after Mr. Tiessen failed to appear in a previous court hearing.

On January 27, 2026, at approximately 1:05 a.m., a correctional officer conducting a welfare check found Mr. Tiessen unresponsive in a single-occupancy cell. Staff immediately initiated lifesaving measures, including CPR and use of an AED and were able to obtain a heartbeat. EMS responded, and Mr. Tiessen was transported to Aspirus St. Lukes Hospital for advanced medical care.

Mr. Tiessen did not regain consciousness and was pronounced deceased on January 30, 2026. We extend our condolences to Mr. Tiessen’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

At the request of the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is conducting an independent investigation to ensure transparency and avoid any potential conflict of interest. Any additional requests for information should be directed to the BCA.