Minneapolis officer killed and identified as Jamal Mitchell; BCA said he was 'ambushed'

MINNEAPOLIS — A Minneapolis police officer died Thursday evening following a shooting involving multiple victims on Blaisdell Avenue in the Whittier neighborhood.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey confirmed at a news conference that Officer Jamal Mitchell was killed in the shooting, saying the city “lost a hero.”

“This officer made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and save the lives of others,” Frey said during the news conference. “His service and his name will forever be remembered by the city of Minneapolis.”

Minneapolis police said officers were responding to a report of a shooting at an apartment building in the 2200 block of Blaisdell Avenue. Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said two men were shot inside the apartment — one died at the scene and the other was transported to the apartment. hospital and is in “serious” condition. Evans also confirmed that the suspected shooter was also dead. In total, four people, including one of the men who were inside the apartment, were injured. MPD Deputy Chief Katie Blackwell said one of the injured was a firefighter and another was an officer.

The BCA said the officers were “ambushed” while responding.

Evans said Officer Mitchell got out of his vehicle after noticing injured people near the area. While attempting to provide medical assistance, Evans said Mitchell was ambushed.

Officials did not provide clear details about what exactly happened, but said gunfire was exchanged. The BCA said more details would be released in the coming days.

The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) said Mitchell was only 28 years old. He was one of two Minneapolis officers to receive special recognition last year after helping save an elderly couple from their burning home.

The MPPOA offered its condolences and praised the courage of the deceased officer in a statement.

“The law enforcement community is devastated and grieving,” MPPOA Executive Director Brian Peters wrote in a statement. “Once again, a police officer courageously faced danger and tragically lost his life while protecting the community. This officer demonstrated unparalleled dedication, bravery and service in defense of the public Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to his family, friends and fellow officers as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. The officer's unwavering commitment to protecting others will leave a legacy of service that will be remembered. will always be remembered. We collectively mourn this significant loss and stand united in support of the Minneapolis Police Department.

Gov. Tim Walz said the Minnesota State Patrol was also responding and assisting MPD, while offering additional state resources if needed.

“I pray for all the first responders on the ground working to keep the community safe,” Walz wrote on X.

“It’s really hard work, and it’s really hard with a lot of guns on the street,” Walz added during the press conference. “And it's really difficult if these people can't feel united behind them to make sure that we provide them with everything we can so that they get what they need to do their job – to protect all of us and protect themselves.” . Their families deserve to know they are coming home.

U.S. Senator Tina Smith called the news “tragic” in an article on X.

“Tragic news that an MPD officer was killed and another seriously injured this evening in south Minneapolis,” Sen. Smith wrote. “We pray for the first responders and everyone in the community tonight who are working to keep us safe.”

U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar added her prayers for those killed and injured in Thursday's shooting.

“Devastated to learn that an MPD officer was killed and another seriously injured this evening while working to keep our community safe,” Sen. Klobuchar wrote on X. “John and I pray for their families and for all those affected by this tragedy.

The Minnesota Sheriff's Association offered its condolences in a Facebook post and said, “This has to stop.”

Surrounding communities have also expressed support for Minneapolis.

Across the river in St. Paul, Mayor Melvin Carter posted on social media that St. Paul was “deeply saddened by the tragic shooting” and had lent officers to assist the MPD, including outside Target Center for the NBA Playoffs.

Several departments also posted messages of condolence on social media, including Metro Transit Police, the Maple Grove Police Chief and the Chisago Co. Sheriff's Office, many of whom changed their profile photos to honor a deceased officer.

This is a developing story. Stay with KARE 11 for more details.

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