Four Victims Hospitalized After Shooting Near I-35W and East Lake Street
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Authorities are investigating a violent shooting near I-35W and East Lake Street that left four adult men hospitalized late Sunday. The incident, which unfolded around the busy transit area, has rattled the community and prompted a large law enforcement response.
According to paramedics, one victim sustained a gunshot wound to the head. He was found unresponsive but still breathing and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The three other victims, all adult males, were also transported for medical treatment with what authorities described as non-fatal injuries. Their conditions have not yet been released.
Emergency responders reported that two victims were discovered inside the North Tower of the Transit Station at I-35W, while the other two were located on a nearby path leading to the Greenway. The placement of the victims suggests that multiple shots were fired in different directions during the incident, which police believe may have unfolded rapidly and chaotically.
Law enforcement confirmed that the only suspect information available at this time is that the shooter was a Black male who fled the scene in a black sedan traveling southbound on Stevens Avenue after the gunfire. Authorities emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages, and they are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage to come forward.
The intersection of I-35W and East Lake Street has long been a heavily trafficked and central area for commuters and pedestrians, which has heightened public concern following the shooting. Witnesses reported confusion and panic as shots rang out, with some bystanders seeking cover while others called 911 for help.
Minneapolis Police and Transit Police are working together to gather evidence, including shell casings, surveillance footage, and witness accounts. Detectives have not yet released a motive for the shooting, nor have they confirmed whether the victims were specifically targeted or if the incident was random.
Community leaders and residents have expressed alarm at the rise in gun violence in and around transit hubs, with many calling for increased safety measures and visible patrols to protect passengers and pedestrians.
Despite the chaos, emergency crews worked swiftly to stabilize the victims and secure the scene. Officials praised the quick response of paramedics, whose immediate actions may have saved lives.
As the investigation continues, police are asking for public assistance. Anyone with information about the shooter or the black sedan seen fleeing the area is urged to contact the Minneapolis Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
For now, families of the victims are left waiting anxiously for updates from the hospital, while the wider Minneapolis community is once again reminded of the devastating toll of gun violence.
