Major Police Operation Underway at M Health Fairview Hospital in Edina: Public Urged to Avoid Area
Edina, MN — April 22, 2025
A large-scale law enforcement operation is unfolding at M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina on Tuesday afternoon, prompting authorities to urge the public to avoid the area due to an ongoing “large police incident.”
At approximately 3:30 p.m., the Edina Police Department issued a statement via X (formerly Twitter) alerting the public to the active situation centered around the 6400 block of France Avenue South. The post emphasized that emergency responders were on the scene and requested that people steer clear to ensure safety and allow law enforcement to manage the unfolding event effectively.
By 3:45 p.m., both hospital entrances on France Avenue and Drew Avenue had been cordoned off. Witnesses and local news outlets have reported a heavy law enforcement presence, including officers positioned near the south-facing entrance to the hospital’s Emergency Room. An armored vehicle and tactical police units bearing ballistic shields have also been spotted at the location, signaling the seriousness of the situation.
Alleged Armed Individual Triggers Lockdown
While police have yet to officially confirm whether the hospital itself is the focal point of the incident, early reports from KSTP indicate that the situation may involve an armed individual. According to a source cited by KSTP, a family member of a patient allegedly entered the hospital carrying a firearm, which reportedly led to an immediate lockdown of the facility.
It remains unclear whether there have been any injuries or hostages taken. Authorities have not released any information about the suspect, their motives, or whether they are currently contained. Hospital officials have also not commented publicly on the situation.
Ongoing Investigation and Response
Law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies appear to be involved in the response, including tactical teams and specialized vehicles typically deployed in high-risk or potentially volatile scenarios. Medical staff and patients within the hospital are believed to be sheltering in place, but that has not been confirmed.
The large police operation has drawn considerable attention from local media and concerned citizens alike. Several photographs and videos circulating on social media show a line of law enforcement vehicles and heavily armed officers surrounding parts of the hospital campus.
The Edina Police Department has not indicated when the area might be cleared or when normal operations at the hospital may resume. Authorities have stressed that the situation is fluid and ongoing.
Public Advisory
Residents and commuters are strongly advised to avoid the vicinity of M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital until further notice. Emergency services are working swiftly to resolve the situation and ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Stay Updated
This is a developing story. Further details will be provided as they become available. For continuous updates, sign up for our BREAKING NEWS alerts and follow local news sources.
Source: Joe Nelson | Bring Me The News
Images courtesy of on-site eyewitnesses and local news crews.