In a tragic and disturbing case out of Minnesota, Cody Vernon Kolstad, 35, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for the intentional murder of his roommate, Brian Daniel Stoeckel, 41.
The crime took place in May 2022, and Kolstad pleaded guilty to second-degree intentional murder after admitting to killing Stoeckel in a drug-induced haze while under significant personal stress.
The Crime and Kolstad’s Confession
On March 28, 2025, Kolstad admitted his guilt during his court hearing and explained the grim events leading to Stoeckel’s death.
According to Kolstad, on the night of May 21, 2022, Stoeckel had been talking about how one of them had to die by midnight, which led Kolstad to grab a shotgun and shoot him. Kolstad explained, “I was high on drugs when I picked up the shotgun, aimed it at the victim, and squeezed the trigger.”
Kolstad’s statement gave insight into the mindset behind the crime, with his actions fueled by drug abuse and personal stress. After the shooting, Kolstad called 911 and told dispatchers, “He’s dead. Bring the coroner.”
When law enforcement arrived, they found Stoeckel’s body in bed with a gunshot wound to the neck. Investigators also discovered a hole in the wall, which was consistent with the violence that had occurred.
Sentencing and Court Proceedings
Judge Karie M. Anderson sentenced Kolstad to 25 years in prison, taking into account nearly three years Kolstad had spent in pretrial detention.
During sentencing, the judge encouraged Kolstad to engage in rehabilitation during his time in prison, using a rhetorical appeal to Kolstad’s better angels, urging him to become a better person and never repeat the actions that led to the murder.
The judge said, “You owe a duty to Brian to do better so that you will never be that same guy that committed murder.”
While Kolstad took responsibility, the family of the victim expressed their deep grief and anger during the sentencing. Stoeckel’s sister, speaking through tears, told Kolstad, “They say the brightest stars burn out the quickest… Cody, you took our star. He didn’t burn out; you made that fire go out.”
Remembering Brian Stoeckel
Stoeckel’s family fondly remembered him in his obituary as someone who was always the life of the party, known for his humor and his ability to entertain his friends and family.
His passing has left a huge hole in the hearts of his loved ones, who described him as someone who brought joy to every occasion, leaving people with memorable stories of his laughter and antics.
The Community Impact
Rice County Attorney Brian Mortenson issued a statement after the sentencing, acknowledging the profound loss felt by Stoeckel’s family and friends. Mortenson stated, “Today an extraordinarily tragic and difficult case has reached its conclusion.
While no plea agreement can ever undo the profound loss, today’s sentence holds the defendant accountable for his actions and, we hope, offers some measure of closure to the victim’s family, friends, and the community deeply affected by this crime.”
The case has brought to light the dangers of drug abuse, domestic tensions, and the tragic outcomes that can occur when these factors collide. While the 25-year sentence for Kolstad cannot bring Stoeckel back, it ensures that Kolstad will be held accountable for his actions.