Dear Ward 7 community, 

I reach out to you this morning with a heavy heart. As many of you now know, a tragic incident occurred yesterday evening here in south Minneapolis’ 5th Precinct. While the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is in the early stages of its investigation and some details may be subject to change as we learn more, here is what is known about the incident at this time.

At approximately 5:15 pm on May 30, 2024, MPD received a call of two people shot inside an apartment on the 2200 block of Blaisdell Ave. S. Police officers from MPD’s Fifth Precinct responded, and the suspected shooter opened fire on the officers. MPD officers exchanged fire with the suspect, and two officers and the suspect were injured during the gunfight. The suspected shooter died at the scene despite lifesaving efforts. One officer sustained an apparent non-life-threatening injury, and another received life-threating injuries. Both officers were transported to Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC). One officer was treated and released. The second officer, identified as Jamal Mitchell, died of his injuries at the hospital. Jamal Mitchell was a hero and a public servant who ran towards danger when it was necessary, and I join his family and his colleagues in grieving his death.

Officers searching the apartment building located two individuals, who may have been residents of the building, apparently injured by gunfire. One of these individuals, an adult, was found deceased in the apartment. The other individual, also an adult, was transported to HCMC with life-threatening injuries.  

Outside the apartment, another adult male was found shot while in his vehicle. He was transported to HCMC with life-threatening injuries. A Minneapolis firefighter also received a non-life-threatening injury during the incident. They were taken to the hospital where they were treated and released.  

Forensic scientists from the Minneapolis Police Forensic Division responded to process the scene and collect evidence. Homicide detectives responded to begin an investigation. BCA investigators are working with MPD investigators to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting deaths. There have been no arrests.

More information will be provided about the incident as the investigation continues, including additional information about Officer Mitchell. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner will release the names of the other deceased individuals, and the cause and nature of their deaths.    

I joined the full Council, Mayor Frey, Assistant Chief Blackwell, Governor Walz, and others at last night’s joint press conference at 10:00 pm at the Public Service Center. We will share new details as we are able and ask that the public continue to avoid the area to allow the investigation work to proceed. I join my colleagues and our entire city in mourning for Officer Mitchell, the other two community members lost, and their loved ones. We will honor his life and remember the sacrifice he made.

Thank you for your attention and care for our community at this challenging time.

Katie Cashman