Minneapolis, MN – On Monday, September 15, Minneapolis experienced two harrowing mass shootings at homeless encampments within the city, leaving at least 13 people wounded, including five in critical condition. The shocking events mark the third and fourth mass shootings in less than three weeks in Minneapolis, highlighting a growing public safety crisis.
Authorities responded swiftly to the incidents, which took place at separate locations but have raised concerns about escalating violence targeting vulnerable populations, particularly within the homeless community.
Details of the Morning Shooting Near East Lake Street and I-35W
The first shooting occurred just after 11 a.m. near an encampment located on East Lake Street and Interstate 35W, where dozens of rounds were fired amidst a “high volume” of people gathered in the area. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara revealed that four adult males were injured and transported to local hospitals, with one victim in life-threatening condition.
Two of these victims were initially found in the nearby Metro Transit tower, while the others were located along a pathway leading to the Midtown Greenway. A fifth individual sustained a graze wound but declined medical treatment.
Investigators believe there was an exchange of gunfire involving someone from the encampment and the shooter, though no arrests have been made so far.
Evening Shooting at South 28th Avenue and East Lake Street Encampment
Later that day, at approximately 10 p.m., police responded to a second shooting at a different homeless encampment two miles away in the southeast section of Minneapolis. According to Chief O’Hara, eight people were shot during this incident. As with the earlier shooting, authorities are actively investigating but have yet to apprehend any suspects.
Officials are also considering whether the two shootings are connected. Chief O’Hara stated,
“While the investigation is still very, very preliminary, that is certainly something that we can’t rule out, and, of course, it’s something that we are considering. We don’t know for sure, but I wouldn’t be surprised.”
Ongoing Violence and Community Impact in Minneapolis
This pair of mass shootings follows two other major violent incidents in the recent weeks, compounding concerns over safety in Minneapolis. On August 27, a tragic shooting through the windows of a church at Annunciation Catholic School killed two children and injured 21 others. Just one day earlier, gunfire at East Lake Street and Clinton Avenue wounded seven people and claimed one life.
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Mayor Jacob Frey expressed deep sorrow and frustration regarding the latest shootings, stating,
“This is tragic. It’s horrible. It’s unacceptable, and, sadly, it’s not surprising.”
Chief O’Hara emphasized the abnormality and seriousness of the situation, saying,
“Here we are yet again in the aftermath of a mass shooting. This is not normal.”
Key Facts and Figures
- Two separate mass shootings occurred on September 15 at Minneapolis homeless encampments.
- 13 individuals were shot in total; five sustained critical injuries.
- The first shooting happened just after 11 a.m. near East Lake Street and Interstate 35W.
- The second shooting took place around 10 p.m. at South 28th Avenue and East Lake Street.
- No suspects have been arrested yet, and police are investigating possible connections between the incidents.
- Minneapolis has witnessed four mass shootings in under three weeks, raising alarm over public safety.
For the most up-to-date crime coverage and ongoing details about these events, visit the original report on PEOPLE.
Looking Ahead: What Minneapolis Needs Now
These repeated violent incidents underscore a critical need for enhanced safety measures, community support, and resources targeted at the city’s homeless population. City officials and law enforcement face mounting pressure to uncover the shooters and prevent further tragedies.
Community leaders advocate for comprehensive intervention strategies that address the root causes of violence and bolster outreach to vulnerable groups.
What do you think about this serious uptick in violence at Minneapolis homeless encampments? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!