KCSD investigates stabbing

At about 8 p.m. Sunday, the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office along with Kootenai County EMS responded to the Windy Ridge area, east of the Fernan Saddle, east of Coeur d’Alene, for a reported stabbing. Blake E. Minier, 20, of Coeur d’Alene, called 911 and advised he had been allegedly stabbed in the chest by his friend, Austin D. Shultz (pictured in KCSD booking photo), 22, of Post Falls. Minier said Shultz had left the area on foot. Responding deputies located Shultz walking on FSR 612, just west of FSR 406 and detained him. Minier was located with his vehicle, just west of FSR 434, where deputies administered first aid until medical arrived. Minier was transported to Kootenai Health via Life Flight where he was last reported to be in critical, but stable condition. Initial investigation revealed the two males became involved in an alcohol-fueled argument before the alleged stabbing incident.

Shultz was booked into the Kootenai County Public Safety Building on one count of Aggravated Battery. The incident remains under investigation and other charges may be forthcoming in the next few days/ Sgt. Ward Crawford , KCSD.