Sources: Minneapolis shooting leaves 1 officer, 2 civilians dead; the suspected shooter is also dead

A police officer and two civilians are dead after a shooting Thursday evening in the Whittier neighborhood, Minneapolis police and law enforcement sources confirmed to 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS. The suspected shooter is also dead, police said.

Several sources add that another officer is hospitalized and that several civilians are also injured.

A heavy police presence was assembled along Blaisdell Avenue, between West 22nd and West 24th streets, starting around 5:30 p.m. An ambulance was also seen rushing away from the scene with its lights on.

The Minneapolis Police Department confirmed that two officers and four civilians were shot, but did not immediately describe the conditions the officers found themselves in. Several sources confirmed that one of the police officers had died.

A local resident told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS she heard five “loud noises,” which she realized were gunshots, then she saw people running away from a gunman of a firearm. The woman added that she saw many police officers respond and tell residents to stay inside.

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

Police have blocked off part of the area and are asking people to avoid the area. Several teams were also seen at Hennepin Healthcare.

Gov. Tim Walz also weighed in on social media, saying the state is prepared to provide whatever resources are needed.

Officials are expected to give further updates at a news conference at 10 p.m. Tune in to 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS and stay with KSTP.com for the latest news.

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