On this Date in Minnesota History: August 19

August 19, 1922 – Dr. John J. Eklund, a prominent and well-known Northland physician, was shot and killed in his office downtown Duluth on this date by John Magnuson, who then turned the gun on himself and committed suicide.  Magnuson was being examined by Dr. Eklund’s son, Dr. W. J. Eklund, who shared an office with his father. As the junior Eklund walked Magnuson out, the killer opened the door to the senior Eklund’s consultation room and shot the doctor and then himself. Both men died instantaneously.

Dr. James McAuliffe, deputy coroner, said Magnuson was a victim of mental derangement caused by a form of Bright’s disease. Police are still looking for a motive.

Duluth News-Tribune; “Crazed Invalid Murders Duluth Surgeon in Office, Kills Self, Motive is Mystery”; Duluth, Minn.; Aug. 20, 1922; p. 1.

Dr. John J. Eklund (Image: Duluth Public Library)

http://zenithcity.com/zenith-city-history-archives/biography/eklund-jj/