Every day, Minneapolis police officers respond to calls not knowing exactly what they are going to encounter. That was the case this week when our officers responded to an active shooting at 15 E. Grant St.

44 seconds after the call to 911, dispatch already had a squad car en route.

One minute and 42 seconds later, Minneapolis police officers entered the building.

Seconds matter, and their actions within those two minutes and 26 seconds helped protect our neighbors, undoubtedly saving lives.

Upon arrival, they encountered a woman that was shot by the suspect. But for their efforts in applying a tourniquet – but for their efforts in making sure that she quickly arrived at the hospital – it is very likely that she would not be alive right now.

They then went into the building, running toward the sound of gunshots, and dealt with an incredibly dangerous situation, encountering haze likely caused by an exploded fire extinguisher. Officers got victims out safely to the hospital, making sure that people could get treated and ultimately stay alive – all while they were getting shot at themselves.

It’s that kind of heroism that our police officers exhibited that deserves not just our greatest thanks, but also a deep understanding that these are the kinds of dangers they face day in and day out.

This week also brought unimaginable loss to two Minneapolis families.

We should be outraged that two members of our community – people who should still be alive today – were killed in this senseless shooting. We are heartbroken, and we hold the families and loved ones who are presently grieving them close to our hearts.

On Wednesday night, I also visited officers Joseph Michnowski and Yahye Ahmed at HCMC to offer my support and encouragement. Officer Ahmed was released Thursday afternoon, and both officers are expected to make a full recovery. I know that their families are greatly relieved. At the same time, they should not need to experience this kind of senseless violence themselves.

This week was also a painful reminder of the devastation violence can bring to a community, but it was also a reminder of who we are: people who run towards danger to help others, and neighbors who look out for one another in a city that shows up when it matters most.

Our city staff are well trained for this. Our Emergency Management and Neighborhood Safety departments immediately stood up their teams to offer support, guidance, and resources for residents. Because of their immediate actions, residents are now able to return to their units.

We can’t undo what happened this week. We can’t bring back the lives we lost or erase the pain experienced by the families of these victims, but we can do everything possible to support our neighbors and support our community.

We can stand together. We can care for one another. We can support those who were injured and make sure that no one has to face the aftermath of this tragedy alone. You can be that we will continue to be here for residents in the days, weeks, and months to come.

Watch Thursday’s press conference

Via Mayor Frey Email