MINNEAPOLIS — Authorities confirmed Friday that a fourth victim has died following a mass shooting that occurred earlier this week in downtown Minneapolis. The incident has deeply affected the local Native American community, raising concerns about potential gang-related violence.
The deceased, a 28-year-old man who had been in critical condition since the shooting late Tuesday, succumbed to his injuries on Thursday. His death came shortly after law enforcement officials detained a 34-year-old suspect believed to be connected to the incident, according to the Minneapolis Police Department.
This tragic event has shaken a vibrant neighborhood known for its significant Native American population. Preliminary reports indicate that some of the victims were part of this community, which has been left reeling from the violence.
Police Chief Brian O’Hara addressed the disturbing circumstances surrounding the shootings, emphasizing that investigators are exploring various motives behind the attacks. “This is a bittersweet day,” O’Hara remarked. “While the arrest signifies important movement toward justice, it is overshadowed by the heartbreaking loss of life. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families and the mourning community.”
On Tuesday, three other lives were lost in the violent outbreak: a 20-year-old woman, a 17-year-old boy, and a 27-year-old man. Additionally, another individual, a 20-year-old woman, remains hospitalized with severe injuries. Just hours after the initial shootings, a 30-year-old man was also fatally shot in what police suspect was a retaliatory attack about three blocks from the original scene.
The initial incidents began shortly before midnight, prompting an urgent investigation by local authorities. O’Hara indicated that the likelihood of the second death being retaliatory is “entirely probable,” although he noted that additional investigation is necessary to pinpoint the responsible parties.
Law enforcement officials believe that gang affiliations may be at the root of these violent acts, drawing from the experiences and backgrounds of those involved in the neighborhood.
In a successful joint operation, the U.S. Marshals Service, in conjunction with an FBI SWAT team, apprehended the suspect on Thursday afternoon. Newly released court documents reveal that he has been charged with second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. As of Friday, he remains in custody, though no legal representation has been identified.
The ramifications of this violence extend beyond the immediate tragedy. Community leaders fear for the safety of residents and are calling for increased support and resources to address the underlying issues contributing to such violence. As the investigation progresses, many in the community hope for both justice for the victims and healing for those left behind.