Man Linked to School Lockdowns in SE Minnesota Located in Iowa

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The man wanted in connection with a social media post that prompted lockdowns at several southeastern Minnesota schools has been located in Iowa.

Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson held a news conference this afternoon to discuss the situation. He said 55-year-old Daniel James Lewison was found earlier today in Chickasaw County, Iowa. The sheriff noted that Lewison is on probation for what he termed a “not serious charge,” and a request to the Department of Corrections to take him into custody for violating probation and leaving the state was denied.

Lewison was taken into custody around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and West Concord Police Department.

Olmsted County Sheriff's Office Lt. Malinda Hanson says the sheriff's office will refer charges related to the investigation to the Olmsted County Attorney's Office on Friday.

Video Outside Byron High Prompts Lockdowns

Lewison was earlier identified as the person who posted a disturbing video on Facebook that was recorded outside Byron High School. Sheriff Torgerson said it was initially believed the video was created this morning, but investigators have since learned it was likely recorded on Tuesday.

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As earlier reported, the video prompted lockdowns affecting Byron High School, as well as schools in the Kasson-Mantorville, Triton, and Hayfield districts.

Sheriff: No Imminent Threat to Officials Named in Video

Sheriff Torgerson said Lewison’s video included statements that could be considered threatening toward a number of current and former public officials, including law enforcement officers, judges, and attorneys. While it does not appear they face an imminent threat, the sheriff said everyone mentioned by Lewison has been contacted and made aware of the situation.

Torgeson also stated that Lewison's "issue is not with the school."

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The sheriff added that the investigation continues and discussions are underway with the Olmsted County Attorney’s Office to determine whether Lewison should face additional charges in connection with the video.

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