FOSSTON, Minn. — The Fosston community is mourning the tragic loss of TeeJay Alvarez, 31, who died Tuesday after suffering gunshot injuries in an incident at a local apartment complex earlier this week.

According to law enforcement officials, officers responded at approximately 3:20 p.m. Monday to an apartment complex in the 300 block of Mark Avenue after receiving a 911 call reporting a disturbance involving a possible firearm.

Upon arrival, authorities learned that Alvarez had sustained a gunshot wound inside one of the apartments. He was initially transported by private vehicle to Essentia Health-Fosston Hospital before being airlifted to Essentia Health in Fargo for advanced medical treatment.

Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Alvarez later died from his injuries.

The Cass County Coroner’s Office confirmed his identity and reported that the cause of death was a gunshot wound.

As news of his passing spread throughout Fosston and surrounding communities, family members, friends, and loved ones were left grieving the loss of a life cut tragically short. Those who knew Alvarez are remembering him through shared memories and expressions of support for his family during an extraordinarily difficult time.

During the investigation, authorities entered the apartment where the shooting reportedly occurred and took 22-year-old Cory Burnette Jr. into custody without incident. Officials stated that he is being held at the Northwest Regional Correctional Center in Crookston on probable cause allegations that include second-degree assault and discharge of a firearm.

Formal charges were still pending as of the latest available information.

Authorities have not publicly released details regarding what may have led to the shooting. Investigators continue to collect evidence, conduct interviews, and review the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Multiple agencies are participating in the investigation, including the Fosston Police Department, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota State Patrol.

Officials emphasize that the investigation remains active and that additional information may be released as the case progresses.

As the legal process continues, family and friends are focused on honoring TeeJay Alvarez’s memory and supporting one another through their grief. His death has left a profound void among those who knew and cared for him, and his loss is being felt throughout the community.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact law enforcement authorities assisting with the investigation.

Note: Criminal allegations are accusations only. Any suspect is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.