Updated: 10/01/2015 5:12 PM
Created: 10/01/2015 5:10 AM KSTP.com
By: Dave Aeikens and Cleo Greene

A Kanabec County deputy shot and killed a man who attacked her and repeatedly punched her in the head in front of a Mora home, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said.

The Ramsey County Medical Examiner has identified the man as 37-year-old Robert Christen of Duluth. The deputy is Shanna McIalwain. She has been with the department 18 months. 

McIalwain responded to the 500 block of Watkins Street about 9 p.m. Wednesday after a woman reported a man had made threats to come to her home and kill someone. Two small children also live in the home, the BCA said.

According to the BCA, Christen drove up at a high speed and crashed into a tree on the front lawn. McIalwain came out the front door of the house as the Christen got out of the vehicle. He charged at McIalwain. She drew her weapon and ordered him on the ground. He ignored the orders and attacked the deputy, punching her in the head.

McIalwain fired her weapon, striking Christen, who died at the scene. She was treated for injuries to her forehead and arm. McIalwain has been placed on administrative leave, which is routine.

A woman who lives nearby said the situation is upsetting.

"I can't believe a man lost his life, which is very sad," Christine Koran said.

Mora is about 70 miles north of the Twin Cities.