Double Shooting Outside Halden Farm Claims Two Lives
Martin Braadland, 29, opened fire with his father’s rifle on a 14-person hunting party gathered at a farm near Ørsjøen in Halden, Nettavisen reported. The early morning attack on Sunday, October 4, 2026, killed Bjørn Rune Engebretsen, 72, and his son, Per-Ove Engebretsen, 47, on the spot. A third man in his 40s sustained serious leg injuries and was flown to Ullevål University Hospital, where medical staff list his condition as stable.
Suspect submits written confession and agrees to evaluation
Nettavisen reported that the suspect has refused verbal police interrogations but submitted a written confession of guilt, consented to four weeks of remand custody, and agreed to a forensic psychiatric evaluation. Defense attorney Ole Richard Holm-Olsen represents the accused, while Prosecutor Henriette Evensen leads the ongoing police investigation.
Gunman approaches hunting group at close range
VG reported that the hunting group had gathered to assign hunting posts when the gunman approached from close range. NRK sources indicated that the shooter stated he was finished once the gunfire ceased, a detail police are reviewing as part of the broader sequence of events.
Investigation Into Suspect’s Movements and Motive
While the gunman’s father stated to Nettavisen that the shooting appeared random and denied any active conflict, police continue to investigate whether a minor dispute contributed to the attack. VG noted that family members had previously expressed concern regarding the suspect’s mental health.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Halden Investigation
What is the current legal status of the suspect?
Martin Braadland is remanded in custody for four weeks with restrictions on mail and visits, having submitted a written confession of guilt to the court while declining verbal police questioning.
Who were the victims of the shooting?
The deceased are Bjørn Rune Engebretsen, 72, and his son Per-Ove Engebretsen, 47, while a third hunter in his 40s survived with serious injuries.
How long is the forensic psychiatric evaluation expected to take?
Defense attorney Ole Richard Holm-Olsen confirmed that prosecutors requested a full judicial observation to assess the suspect’s sanity at the time of the offense, with designated psychologists and psychiatrists assigned to the case.
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