The lifeless body of a 34-year-old man was discovered inside a chest freezer on June 26, raising suspicions that he had been attempting to elude law enforcement. 

In a press release issued on Friday, July 7, the Gilbert Police Department, responsible for investigating incidents in Biwabik, Minnesota, revealed that the older model of the freezer possessed an external latching mechanism, effectively trapping Brandon Lee Buschman, the victim, once he entered.

Authorities determined that the home in which the grim discovery was made had remained unoccupied since February 2023. Investigators further revealed that several acquaintances of Buschman had been present at the property when he went missing. These individuals informed law enforcement that they witnessed the deceased fleeing from the upstairs area of the house in response to a potential police presence in the vicinity. Buschman had an outstanding arrest warrant out for him at the time.

The police’s preliminary assessment suggests that Buschman voluntarily climbed into the freezer, which was not operational at the time. However, their inspection revealed the presence of a metal lawn ornamental pole inserted into the locking mechanism from inside the freezer. Unfortunately, due to the rod becoming wedged between the gasket and the manufactured edge, Buschman remained trapped inside, unable to free himself.

The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy, revealing no signs of trauma or injury on the deceased. Pending toxicology reports may provide further insights. 

An investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances of Buschman’s death.