Minnesota Man’s Deadly Outburst Ends in Tragedy: Wife Murdered, Deputy Nearly Shot
A tragic act of domestic violence leaves a Minnesota woman dead and her husband facing decades in prison. 🌐 #News #ChisagoCountyMN #Minnesota #Crime
CHISAGO COUNTY, MN – A tragic case of domestic violence in Harris, Minnesota, has come to a grim conclusion. Mike Carda, 40, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and attempted murder, admitting his role in the shooting death of his wife, Sarah Carda, and firing at a responding sheriff’s deputy.
While Carda entered an Alford plea, allowing him to maintain his claim of innocence, he will still face a significant prison sentence. The plea agreement dropped a second-degree assault charge, leaving him with a potential sentence of 34.5 years.
The Events Leading to the Tragedy
The fatal incident occurred on October 6, 2023, in Fish Lake Township. A deputy from the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic disturbance report at the couple’s home. As the deputy approached, Sarah’s desperate warning—”He has a gun!”—could be heard through the door.
Gunshots erupted from the bedroom, forcing the deputy to retreat. Additional rounds pierced the window, passing within two feet of his head. A muffled gunshot from inside the house marked the tragic end of Sarah’s life.
A SWAT team was called to the scene, using a drone to confirm that Sarah had been shot. After multiple non-lethal attempts to extract Carda failed, a K-9 unit was deployed to subdue and arrest him.
History of Domestic Abuse and Mental Health Struggles
Court records reveal a pattern of abuse leading up to the tragedy. Carda had been arrested for domestic assault in July 2023 after attacking his wife. He had also violated a no-contact order imposed to protect Sarah from further harm.
Family members described disturbing behavior in the months before the shooting, alleging that Carda believed his in-laws were targeting him with brain-altering technology.
The domestic abuse complaint recounts multiple violent incidents, including one where Carda tackled Sarah to the ground and another where he pinned her against a wall and grabbed her throat. Additional reports indicate that Carda was battling substance abuse during this period, and controlled substances were later found on the property.
Remembering Sarah’s Life and Impact
Sarah dedicated over 15 years to nursing, serving as a nurse at the Isanti County Jail since 2014. Her compassion extended beyond her job, as she also worked with adults with disabilities and residents in transitional care.
Outside of her professional life, Sarah loved being outdoors, cherished her dogs, and delighted in making her nephews smile.
Her family has established a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral costs, student loans, and repairs to the home damaged during the incident. Any remaining funds will be donated to the Domestic Abuse Project, continuing Sarah’s legacy of care and compassion. Learn more about the GoFundMe here.
Justice and Healing Await
Carda’s sentencing will take place on January 22, 2025. He faces a potential sentence of 415 months, or approximately 34.5 years, in prison.
Sarah’s family has expressed their deep appreciation for the first responders and law enforcement officers involved. They also encourage anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting START to 88788.
A Tribute to Sarah’s Spirit
Sarah’s life was one of service, kindness, and love. Her family, friends, and colleagues will carry her memory forward, honoring the joy she brought to those around her.
In these difficult moments, the words of John 14:27 offer a message of comfort: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
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