Tragic Shooting Outside Wayzata High School Graduation at 3M Arena in Minneapolis Leaves 49-Year-Old Man and 19-Year-Old Teen Injured; Suspect Taken Into Custody
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – A peaceful celebration turned chaotic Friday night when a shooting erupted near 3M Arena at Mariucci on the University of Minnesota campus during the Wayzata High School graduation ceremony. At least two individuals were injured, and one suspect has been apprehended, according to law enforcement and emergency officials.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:33 p.m. near 1901 4th Street SE in Southeast Minneapolis, where hundreds had gathered to witness the commencement event scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. The graduation was underway or just concluding when reports of gunfire emerged, sparking panic and confusion among attendees.
What Happened?
Dispatch audio and emergency responses reveal that multiple shots were fired amid what witnesses described as a large altercation involving a group of young men. A cellphone video captured by a bystander shows a sizable group engaged in a physical fight moments before gunshots rang out, though it remains unclear if the confrontation was directly related to the shooting.
The exact location of the shooting—whether inside the arena or just outside—has not been definitively confirmed, but initial information and official statements indicate the incident likely took place outside the arena.
Victims and Medical Response
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) rushed two victims to nearby hospitals:
- A 49-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the head. His condition remains unknown at this time.
- A 19-year-old male sustained two gunshot wounds to his thigh but is currently in stable condition.
There are unconfirmed reports of a possible third injured person who may have left the scene in a private vehicle. Investigators are still exploring these claims.
Arrest and Investigation
University of Minnesota Police officers responded swiftly to the chaotic scene and apprehended a suspect matching eyewitness descriptions. The individual, described as a Black male in his 20s wearing a red and black shirt, a blue hoodie, and jeans, reportedly fled on foot after the shooting but was caught shortly thereafter.
Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity pending further investigation.
The University of Minnesota Police Department is leading the investigation, with support from other local law enforcement agencies. Officials are actively seeking information or video footage from the public to aid in their inquiry.
Reactions and Statements
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his deep concern and sorrow over the event in a social media statement:
“Horrific news of a shooting near Mariucci Arena during a graduation event tonight – a time of celebration that should never have turned into one of fear and sadness. As officials take the suspect into custody, I’m praying for the injured. We’re in touch with University of Minnesota Police, and the state stands ready to assist in any way possible.”
Wayzata Public Schools also released a statement confirming the shooting occurred after their graduation ceremony and that the district is working to obtain accurate information to share with families and the community.
Community Impact and Next Steps
Graduations are typically joyous occasions, marking the culmination of years of hard work for students and their families. The disruption caused by this violent event has shaken the local community and cast a shadow over the celebrations.
University officials, city leaders, and law enforcement are prioritizing safety and transparency as they continue their work to piece together the circumstances leading to the shooting. With an ongoing investigation, authorities urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has any relevant footage to come forward.
As the community awaits further details, prayers and support go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this unfortunate incident.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.