A Sudden Loss That Shook Two Towns

The communities of Le Sueur and Henderson, Minnesota, are reeling after the sudden passing of Officer Karl Haugen, a man who was much more than his badge. His death has left a void that words cannot fill, striking at the very heart of two towns where his presence was woven into daily life. To those who knew him, Karl was not only an officer of the law, but a trusted neighbor, a confidant, and a friend. His absence is deeply felt by both colleagues in uniform and the countless residents whose lives he touched with compassion and courage.

A Career Built on Service and Connection

Officer Haugen began his career with the Le Sueur Police Department in 2008, serving both part- and full-time. From routine patrols to moments of crisis, his work was marked not just by duty, but by genuine care for the people he served. In 2017, he accepted the role of Henderson Police Chief, stepping into leadership with the same humility and strength that had defined his years on the street. When he resigned in 2019, his farewell reflected his loyalty to both the city and his family, words that still resonate today. More than a title, Karl Haugen embodied what it meant to be a community officer: approachable, dependable, and always willing to listen.

A Legacy of Compassion and Lasting Bonds

As funeral arrangements remain forthcoming, those who knew Karl reflect not only on his service but on the legacy of compassion he leaves behind. He was the officer who made people feel safe, the friend who could be counted on, and the neighbor who never hesitated to lend a hand. His ability to connect with people in both ordinary conversations and moments of fear set him apart as someone truly special. Today, Le Sueur and Henderson are not just mourning a law enforcement officer—they are grieving a man who embodied the best of humanity. In their sorrow, the community is holding Karl’s family close, lifting them with love, prayers, and gratitude for the years they shared with him.