Parkers Prairie Man Arrested After Threatening to Shoot Up Local Bank

Matthew Baker walked into a Parkers Prairie bank at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday intending to cash a $10,000 check. He left in handcuffs.

Baker, 57, was arrested after bank staff reported he threatened to return with a "six-shooter" and "shoot up the bank" when employees declined to immediately process the transaction. Parkers Prairie police booked him on charges related to threats and disorderly conduct, and Otter Tail County prosecutors are handling the case.

The confrontation began when staff explained the institution's waiting period policy for non-customer check transactions. Baker became upset and began using profanity. The bank president asked him to leave, and Baker responded by threatening to rob the institution and return armed, according to the criminal complaint. Employees called police, who detained Baker shortly after he exited.

Staff and customers present described feeling shaken by the exchange. Prosecutors and community officials reiterated that threats of violence, even when not carried out, draw a robust law-enforcement response. The bank staff's decision to immediately contact police was credited with removing what officers treated as an active threat.

The incident has prompted local banks and small businesses to remind employees about safety protocols and procedures for notifying police quickly.

Baker's case will proceed through Otter Tail County district court, where prosecutors will weigh the criminal complaint alongside surveillance footage and witness statements before determining next steps. The arrest does not constitute a conviction.

Anyone with information about the incident was asked to contact Parkers Prairie police.