Shooting, after hours of fireworks in downtown Minneapolis, leaves one man dead, another wounded

The gunfire erupted late at night; police are pursuing a suspect and motive.

The Minnesota Star Tribune
June 20, 2025 at 7:01PM
Memorial for homicide victim in Minneapolis. (Victor Stefanescu)

Gunfire erupted near a downtown Minneapolis street corner early Friday, leaving one man dead and a second wounded, officials said.

The shooting occurred about 12:15 a.m. near 14th Street and Nicollet Avenue, where responding officers found the victims, police said.

One man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other had noncritical injuries, according to police. Officials have yet to release the victims’ identities.

No arrests have been announced in connection with the gunfire, nor have police addressed a motive for the violence.

The shooting occurred after fireworks were ignited that lasted for hours, with people lingering outside the Volunteers of America’s residential building since the afternoon in connection with what appeared to be a cookout on the sidewalk.

“Preliminary information indicates there was a gathering at the intersection before shots were fired,” a police statement read. “The person who fired shots fled the scene before officers arrived.”

In response, Police Chief Brian O’Hara said in a statement, ”A family’s life has been forever changed by this unacceptable act of violence. As we enter the summer months, I urge everyone to find peaceful ways to resolve conflict. Every act of violence leaves a lasting impact — not just on those directly involved, but on our entire community.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to email  policetips@minneapolismn.gov or leave a voicemail at 612-673-5845. Tipsters wishing to provide information anonymously are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and visit the Crime Stoppers website. Those providing information leading to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a financial reward.

There have been 25 homicides in the city this year, according to a Minnesota Star Tribune database. That compares to 33 at this time last year.

Minnesota Star Tribune staff writer Victor Stephanescu contributed to this report.

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Paul Walsh

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Paul Walsh is a general assignment reporter at the Minnesota Star Tribune. He wants your news tips, especially in and near Minnesota.

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