BREAKING: Minneapolis Shooting Suspect Arrested – 34-Year-Old James Ortley in Custody
In a major breakthrough following Tuesday night’s tragic shooting in South Minneapolis, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara has confirmed the arrest of 34-year-old James Ortley, the primary suspect in a violent incident that claimed three lives and left two others injured.
Ortley is wanted on multiple counts of second-degree murder and is also facing serious federal charges related to firearms. The charges stem from a chilling scene that unfolded on Tuesday night, when authorities responded to reports of gunfire in a quiet South Minneapolis neighborhood. Upon arrival, police discovered five victims—three of whom were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were transported to local hospitals with injuries.
Chief O’Hara, speaking at a press conference Thursday morning, made it clear that this was not a random act of violence. “The individual in custody was known to at least one of the people involved. This was a targeted act, not an indiscriminate shooting,” O’Hara stated. This confirmation brings some reassurance to a community rattled by the senselessness and severity of the incident.
The arrest of James Ortley marks a significant development in what law enforcement described as an “active and intensive investigation.” The operation to apprehend him involved a multi-agency collaboration, including the NorthStar Fugitive Task Force, which operates under the United States National Sheriff’s Service, and tactical support from an FBI SWAT team. The successful arrest was reportedly executed without incident.
Ortley is now in custody, facing a combination of state-level homicide charges and federal firearm violations. Authorities have not yet released details about the possible motive or the exact relationship between Ortley and the victims, citing the ongoing investigation. However, law enforcement officials emphasized that bringing Ortley into custody was an essential step toward delivering justice for the victims and ensuring the safety of the broader community.
The Minneapolis Police Department, along with federal agencies, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Officials are also seeking any additional information that could help reconstruct the timeline of events leading up to the crime.
Anyone with information related to the shooting or Ortley’s whereabouts prior to his arrest is urged to contact authorities. Tips can be directed to the nearest U.S. Sheriff Service office, or to the U.S. Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102.
As the community continues to mourn the loss of life and search for answers, Chief O’Hara expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the public. “We are committed to a full and transparent investigation, and we ask anyone with knowledge of this case to come forward,” he said.
Further updates are expected as formal charges are processed and the case moves toward arraignment.