A heartbreaking tragedy has left the North Minneapolis community reeling in shock this week. On what should have been a peaceful Monday afternoon at Folwell Park, the sound of gunfire shattered the calm just after 2 p.m. Minneapolis police rushed to the scene on Dowling Avenue North following frantic reports of shots fired. Chief Brian O’Hara described a chaotic scene, with witnesses seeing multiple vehicles moving through the area. One car was seen driving through the park itself while two others maneuvered through the parking lot. This senseless violence has stolen a young life far too soon and has left our neighbors demanding answers and justice for the innocent victim.
Amidst the chaos, a moment of desperate humanity emerged nearby. A Good Samaritan sitting on his porch near Morgan and Dowling Avenues heard cries for help and discovered the wounded eleven year old boy with two other men. Acting quickly, the resident loaded the child into a car to rush him to safety, flagging down law enforcement officers near Penn Avenue. Despite these heroic efforts, the young boy succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Chief O’Hara expressed the collective grief of the city, emphasizing the horror of losing a child in broad daylight. Police firmly believe there were other people present who witnessed the events that took place and can help identify the shooter.
The investigation is active, and authorities are pleading for the public to step up. Anyone who was at Folwell Park on Monday afternoon is urged to contact CrimeStoppers or the police tip line immediately. You can remain anonymous if you are afraid to speak out. As the neighborhood begins the difficult process of mourning, it is a reminder of how vital community support is during these dark times. Neighbors often come together to support grieving families, perhaps by dropping off a hot meal or a hearty home cooked dish to show they care. If you know anything about the vehicles involved, please do the right thing and help bring peace to this family.
