Western Wisconsin Man Charged With Felony Assault After Altercation With Squirrel Hunter

A Pepin County man has been charged with felony assault for inflicting life-threatening injuries on a Hmong hunter last month.

Kevin J. Elberg has been charged with two felony counts of battery, causing bodily harm and false imprisonment for his role in an altercation with a Hmong hunter on Nov. 5. According to the criminal complaint, 65-year-old Sao Vang and two others were hunting squirrels on public land adjacent to land owned by Elberg’s father. Vang reportedly wandered onto private property and was confronted by Elberg. An altercation ensued which left Vang with a lacerated liver, internal bleeding and a sliced hand.

Elberg claims Vang pointed his rifle at him, while Vang claims it was slung over his shoulder.

Elberg was arrested Nov. 8 and released two days later. Charges were first filed on Wednesday. Elberg is scheduled for a court appearance on Dec. 15.