A tense situation in a Minneapolis neighborhood was defused by law enforcement, thanks to a ShotSpotter alert and local cooperation, authorities said Thursday. On the evening of Wednesday, August 7, police officers from the 4th Precinct responded rapidly to the alert on the 2900 block of Russell Av N, said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara in an official news release.
Community members reported witnessing a man, later identified as 21-year-old Amariaun Antonio-Thomas Thornton, discharging a firearm before taking refuge in a detached garage, and then in an occupied residence, as reported by the City of Minneapolis. The police immediately established a perimeter and started evacuating those inside the house, among them several adults, juveniles, and a child of five years. To ensure no one was left at risk, a dog was safely retrieved with the assistance of the homeowner.
Thornton attempted to escape the scene by jumping through a window but was captured by HCSO Deputies following a short chase. "This is the second time this week that officers have secured a perimeter and used resources to peacefully resolve a tense situation," Chief O'Hara remarked. The police then conducted a comprehensive search of the premises using Minneapolis SWAT and drone technology after acquiring the necessary warrant to ensure no additional threats were present.
