Rochester, MN – A Rochester man accused of killing his father and shooting at a neighbor will face trial in the spring. Michael Joseph Milbrandt, 36, entered not‑guilty pleas on Thursday to one count each of second‑degree murder and first‑degree burglary, plus two counts of attempted first‑degree murder. The court has tentatively scheduled the trial to begin in the third week of April 2027.
Alleged fatal shooting of father
According to the criminal complaint, Milbrandt fatally shot his father during a confrontation on the night of Jan. 27. Rochester police responded to an emergency call from a parking lot in the 1200 block of Marion Road Southeast and found the victim lying in the snow with a gunshot wound to the head. Two witnesses told officers they heard an argument followed by a gunshot, and one reported hearing someone say, “Don’t shoot,” just before the discharge.
Family background and drug use concerns
Court documents indicate Milbrandt had been renting an Airbnb in the basement of the property where the shooting occurred. His wife told investigators she had kicked him out of their home two days before the incident because of his drug use. The homeowner, described as a friend and neighbor, said he had spoken with Milbrandt’s father about trying to get Milbrandt help for his drug problem, noting that the son had been “spiraling in drug use.”
Altercation with neighbor
Later that night, officers were called to a home in the 2700 block of Marion Road after a report of an intruder armed with a pistol. Police found Milbrandt’s vehicle parked outside and the homeowner wrestling with Milbrandt. The homeowner said he was in the basement with his wife when he heard a crashing noise upstairs. When he investigated, he saw Milbrandt approaching with a drawn pistol and a flashlight. The homeowner reported that Milbrandt fired at him but missed, leading to a struggle during which Milbrandt allegedly fired a second shot while holding the pistol near the victim’s head.
Custody and next steps
Milbrandt remains in custody at the Olmsted County Adult Detention Center with bail set at $1 million. His next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 2027. The case continues to draw attention from local law‑enforcement officials and community members concerned about the impact of drug‑related violence.
Community response
Local residents have expressed concern over the “spiraling” drug use mentioned in the complaint and the tragic loss of life within a family. While the investigation proceeds, Rochester police have emphasized their commitment to thorough investigation and public safety.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
