Minnesota Man Found Guilty in Teen’s River Death

Nicolae Miu, a 54-year-old from Prior Lake, Minnesota, has been convicted of first-degree reckless homicide and additional charges after a violent altercation on the Apple River in St. Croix County, Wisconsin. This tragic incident, which occurred in late July 2022, resulted in the death of 17-year-old Isaac Schuman and injuries to four others. The group, enjoying a tubing outing at the time, confronted Miu over his behavior in the water, which they deemed inappropriate.

The Wisconsin circuit court jury also found Miu guilty of four counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and one count of battery. The accusations arose after witnesses reported that Miu seemed to be approaching children in the river under the pretext of looking for a lost cellphone. This confrontation escalated when Miu reportedly refused to leave the area, leading to a physical altercation and the subsequent stabbing.

Details of the Incident and Legal Proceedings

The situation intensified when, according to court documents, Miu punched a woman and subsequently engaged in a fight that culminated in him pulling out a knife and stabbing several individuals. Miu claimed self-defense, stating that he felt provoked and attacked. However, prosecutors argued that he had ample opportunity to de-escalate the situation or remove himself from it altogether. Video evidence and witness accounts played a crucial role in the jury’s decision to convict.

Defense attorney Aaron Nelson expressed surprise and disappointment at the verdict, highlighting Miu’s distraught state and concerns about his future. Meanwhile, the community remembers Isaac Schuman as an honor roll student who aspired to study electrical engineering. His untimely death has left his family and peers mourning a bright, promising life cut short. The case, which has no set sentencing date yet, continues to draw attention due to its violent nature and the circumstances leading up to the altercation.