Man fatally attacked at Hopkins home died of chop wounds

Published 8:03 am Wednesday, August 30, 2017

HOPKINS — Authorities say a Hopkins man suffered “multiple chop wounds” and died in an attack by a former neighbor who violated a restraining order.

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner on Monday identified the victim as John Gallagher Jr, 67. Police say Mitchell Hoogenakker, 24, used an ax to force his way into Gallagher’s home Friday and drag him outside. Responding officers found Gallagher on his front lawn with significant injuries. He died at the scene.

Hoogenakker was charged Monday with second-degree murder. Officials say the suspect had recently threatened Gallagher.

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