Police confirm two civilians died and a police officer were killed in a shooting in Minneapolis

KSTP contributed to this report. WDIO
(KSTP)

A police officer and a suspected gunman are among three dead in a shooting Thursday in Minneapolis, officials say. Several others, including a second police officer and a firefighter, were also hurt.

According to Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey identified the fallen officer at a press conference Thursday night as Jamal Mitchell.

On Thursday, there was a heavy police presence along Blaisdell Avenue between West 22nd and West 24th streets starting at around 5:30 p.m. An ambulance was also seen rushing away from the scene with lights activated.

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Minneapolis Officer Jamal Mitchell who was killed Thursday was responding to a shooting call and providing medical attention to a man when he was ambushed, authorities said. Officer Mitchell was trying to help an injured man when a man shot him, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said.

The Minneapolis Police Department said earlier that three others, including the suspected shooter, were killed. Two police officers also were hospitalized with injuries from the shooting in the south Minneapolis neighborhood of Whittier.

ATF agents were “there to help expedite the firearms investigation piece of it,” she said.

“Minnesota mourns the loss of Officer Jamal Mitchell, a dedicated public servant and hero in his community who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his neighbors,” said Governor Walz in a statement. “Our first responders are first to step in during crisis. We must never take their commitment for granted, and we must ensure they can answer their call of duty without fearing for their own lives. My heart is with the family and loved ones of Officer Mitchell at this time.”

On Friday, Gov. Tim Walz orders all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings on Friday to honor Officer Jamal Mitchell.

Police had the area blocked off and asked people to avoid the area. Several squads were also seen at Hennepin Healthcare.

Agents from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives responded to “an active shooting situation” and are “there to help expedite the firearms investigation piece of it,” said Ashlee Sherrill, a spokeswoman for the local field division.

A resident in the area told KSTP’s 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS that she heard five “loud pops,” which she realized were gunshots, and then saw people running from a man with a gun. The woman added that she saw a lot of police officers responding and they were telling residents to stay inside.

Other witnesses have reported hearing dozens of shots, and other agencies were also seen responding to the area.

Gov. Tim Walz also weighed in on social media, saying the State Patrol is on the scene assisting local law enforcement. Gov. Walz added “The State of Minnesota stands ready to provide any resources necessary. Praying for all the first responders on the ground working to keep the community safe.”

This story has been edited to include additional information and update that there were three people killed, including the suspected gunman. Initial reports said four people were killed.