Man found fatally shot in Minneapolis as July 4 drew to a close

A man was found shot to death late Friday in south Minneapolis, officials said.

Someone flagged down firefighters about 11:20 p.m. and alerted to an unconscious man who was on the ground in the 2700 block of Bloomington Avenue, police said.

The firefighters immediately gave emergency aid to the man, a police statement read.

Police say the man, in his 20s, was shot at least once. Officers found evidence at the scene pointing to multiple shots being fired, the statement continued.

The man was transported to the hospital and pronounced dead there, police said. His identity has yet to be released.

No arrests have been announced, and police are trying to determine the circumstances connected to the shooting.

“Someone knows what happened to this man,” read a statement from Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “We need anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to share that information with us.”

This was the city’s second homicide on July 4. Gunfire struck and killed one of two men riding electric scooters about 2:35 a.m. in the 2100 block of Dupont Avenue N., police said.

The victim, in his 20s, was taken by emergency medical personnel to North Memorial Health Hospital, where he died, police said. Officials have yet to release his identity.

As with Friday night’s killing, no arrests have been announced, and police have not addressed a possible motive.

The homicides occurred during the city’s renewed efforts to tamp down Fourth of July mayhem by increasing patrols and closing off some parking lots and roads for annual festivities.

O’Hara said the majority of road closures are around the Mississippi River’s Boom Island, where the “Red, White and Boom” fireworks show takes place, and Bde Maka Ska, the largest in the city’s Chain of Lakes.

The chief reported Saturday afternoon that “for the first time in recent years, we did not see widespread chaos involving groups recklessly firing fireworks at people and property. While gun violence remains a serious concern — and historically spikes during this week — the absence of dangerous fireworks activity is a clear reflection of the success of MPD’s holiday safety plan and the dedication of our officers."

The chief credited “our proactive strategy” on July 4th with the arrest of a man downtown who had a pistol without having a permit to carry a firearm and the towing of a vehicle filled with illegal fireworks.

O’Hara said that the increased law enforcement presence will continue throughout the weekend.

There have been 29 homicides in the city this year, according to a Star Tribune database. That compares to 35 at this time last year in Minneapolis.

Anyone with information about either killing is encouraged to email policetips@minneapolismn.gov or leave a message at 612-673-5845. Tipsters wishing to provide information anonymously are encouraged to call CrimeStoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit the CrimeStoppers website. Those providing information leading to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a reward.