Minneapolis is grappling with the aftermath of a harrowing series of events that left two dead following a carjacking and high-speed chase. Early in the morning on Lake St E and 4th Av S, an armed individual began terrorizing the community, first being spotted in a maroon Ford Explorer, then escalating to carjacking and gunfire.
According to a bulletin released by the Minneapolis Police Department, the suspect’s erratic driving included swerving into traffic, driving at excessive speeds, and risking pedestrian safety by mounting sidewalks. The suspect's disregard for human life became tragically evident when, after a failed carjacking attempt, they forcibly took control of a black Volkswagen sedan at gunpoint and subsequently returned to relieve the Ford Explorer of three dogs and other items before resuming their escape.
The chaos continued downtown, with reports to 911 indicating the carjacked Volkswagen moving recklessly through the busy streets of Minneapolis. The police's effort to apprehend the suspect led to a pursuit, which tragically ended when the gunman collided with another vehicle, resulting in the death of two adult women at the scene and injuring a juvenile male.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara lamented the devastating outcome, stating, "This is an outcome we never want—a devastating incident with very heartbreaking and permanent consequences," which was reported by the Minneapolis Police Department's bulletin. The Minnesota State Patrol now leads the crash investigation as they work on reconstruction, while Hennepin County Sheriff's Crime Scene Investigators assist with the scene.
The gunman was arrested and hospitalized for non-life-threatening injuries, after which he will be booked into Hennepin County Jail. Two of the three dogs were injured and are receiving treatment; the firearm used in the crimes was also recovered from the vehicle. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner is expected to release the identities of the deceased soon.
Minneapolis Police urge anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be anonymously submitted to CrimeStoppers or through the MPD by emailing [email protected] or calling 612-673-5845; financial rewards may be available for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
