LAKE CITY, MN – A longtime feud between neighbors escalated into violence this week when an 81-year-old man allegedly shot the owner of a sandwich shop in this quiet community along the Mississippi River.

Authorities say William Piar, a resident who lives just behind a Subway restaurant on North Lakeshore Drive, opened fire on the building Wednesday afternoon. The dramatic incident unfolded around 1:30 p.m., sending shockwaves through the normally tranquil neighborhood.

According to police, Piar and the owner of the Subway had disputed over property for several years before the confrontation erupted into gunfire. The shop owner, whose name has not been publicly released, was struck in the abdomen during the incident. First responders arrived quickly, finding the wounded man on the floor of an apartment connected to the restaurant. Witnesses reported that the victim’s family and employees were trying to assist him as he lay bleeding.

Responding officers encountered Piar in his backyard shortly after the shooting. Clad in a black stocking hat and black coat, Piar reportedly failed to comply with commands to show his hands, keeping one hand tucked in his coat pocket while telling police, “No.” Officers then deployed bean bag rounds in an attempt to disarm him, striking Piar and forcing him to reveal a dark-colored handgun.

Despite repeated requests, Piar allegedly refused to drop his firearm, prompting officers to fire additional bean bag rounds. At one point, police say, Piar asked officers to shoot him. Eventually, the suspect fell to the ground and was disarmed, suffering a heavy bleed from his left hand in the process.

After Piar was secured and taken into custody, officers provided medical attention to both men. The shooting victim was transported to a nearby hospital with injuries considered to be life-threatening. Authorities have not released an update on his condition.

Investigators believe there were customers inside the Subway restaurant when shots rang out, though details about other potential injuries or damage have not been confirmed.

Piar faces multiple felony charges, including first-degree attempted murder, attempted second-degree murder, and several counts of assault. He appeared in Goodhue County court Friday, where bail was set at $2 million. His next court date is scheduled for next month.

Officials say the incident highlights the potential dangers of prolonged neighbor disputes, particularly when tensions escalate unchecked. As the victim’s recovery remains uncertain, the Lake City community is left grappling with the aftermath of violence in an unexpected place just south of Minneapolis.