McKenzie County Deputy cleared of wrongdoing following March shooting

WATFORD CITY, N.D. (KUMV) - An outside investigation has cleared a McKenzie County Deputy of wrongdoing following a shooting in Watford City in March.

Sergeant Daniel Halonen fired multiple rounds at 65-year-old Walter Fitzwater after telling deputies he had a gun. Investigators said an electronic shock device was first used, but was ineffective.

Five different attorneys from McKenzie, Griggs, and Williams Counties reviewed the incident and all agreed no charges needed to be filed against Halonen.

Sheriff Matthew Johansen in a statement, called this a tragic and difficult incident for everyone involved and recognizes this outcome will be taken differently within the community.

He said the office remains committed to transparency and accountability.