MINNEAPOLIS – A devastating shooting incident unfolded in Minneapolis on Thursday evening, resulting in the loss of three lives, city officials and WCCO sources reported. Among the victims were a police officer and two civilians, with the suspect also confirmed deceased. Another police officer sustained critical injuries, as revealed by CBS Minnesota [1].
The crisis began when law enforcement responded to reports of shots fired at an apartment complex located in the 2200 block of Blaisdell Avenue South, situated in the Whittier neighborhood, according to a news release from the city of Minneapolis.
Following the distressing events, two officers were rushed to a hospital, but the situation took a tragic turn with the news of one of the wounded officers succumbing to their injuries, as announced by the Minneapolis Police and Peace Officers Association, the union representing Minneapolis police.
Expressing grief over the loss, the union’s executive director, Brian Peters, noted, “Once again, a police officer bravely faced danger and tragically lost his life protecting the community.”
Will there by a statue of him put in the downtown?
— Bob K ?? (@EnsPulver1958) May 31, 2024 [2]
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remained shrouded in uncertainty, prompting authorities to schedule a late-night news conference on Thursday to address the unfolding situation.
Eyewitness accounts of the incident painted a harrowing picture, with residents describing the sound of gunshots echoing through the neighborhood.
Reuben Molina, a local resident, recounted, “Me and my girlfriend, we heard really loud banging at first. Then we heard it again and again and again in rapid succession. And me and her were like, ‘Oh that’s gunshots.'”
Minneapolis Shooting witnesses speak. Interesting info, maybe more then one suspect? Rumors. Wondering is the suspect caught??
?#Minneapolis [3] | #Minnesota [4] pic.twitter.com/hkkpyhtEEr [5]
— iCkEdMeL ☀?? (@iCkEdMeL) May 31, 2024 [6]
In response to the crisis, multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Minnesota State Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, mobilized to the scene. Authorities issued warnings urging the public to steer clear of the impacted area.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz extended support, stating in a tweet, “The State of Minnesota stands ready to provide any resources necessary. Praying for all the first responders on the ground working to keep the community safe.”
As nightfall approached, the Minneapolis Police Department indicated that the situation remained dynamic and under active assessment.
Collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies were evident, with officers from the St. Paul Police Department aiding in patrols within Minneapolis, as confirmed by St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, who expressed solidarity in the face of the tragedy.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting in Minneapolis tonight,” Mayor Carter lamented. “We are praying for our colleagues and the entire Minneapolis community.”