Updated Press release- Gene Berthiaume’s death not due to a fall

November 7, 2011 - The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office responded to an emergency call on November 5, 2011 at 11:09 AM for assistance from hunters in the Saum area who found a member of their hunting party under his deer stand. The victim, GENE ARTHUR BERTHIAUME, age 72, of St. Paul, MN, was located by emergency responders in a wooded area off Pioneer Road NE, in Woodrow Township (approximately 45 miles north of Bemidji), Beltrami County. First responders and EMT’s from Blackduck administered first aid to Mr. Berthiaume.

Mr. Berthiaume died at the scene. He was transported to Bemidji by Blackduck Ambulance personnel. The investigation into Mr. Berthiaume’s death was concluded today with findings from the Coroner’s Office advising that his death was due to natural causes and was not caused by a fall or injuries from a fall.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by MN DNR Conservation Officers, Blackduck Ambulance and Kelliher First Responders.

Sheriff Phil Hodapp