'Altercation' Among 5 Students Preceded Deadly Richfield Shooting

RICHFIELD, MN — Richfield police say an "altercation" among five students who knew each other took place before the deadly shooting outside the South Education Center on Tuesday.

"The shooting was not random," police said, adding that their department is "confident this was an isolated incident. No lingering threat exists to the Richfield community."

Three people were shot Tuesday, including 15-year-old Jahmari Rice, who died of his injuries after he was transported to the Hennepin County Medical Center. A 17-year-old student who was shot was also taken to HCMC and remains in critical condition.

The third victim, age 19, suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

At least seven search warrants were executed Tuesday night, and two suspects — students ages 18 and 19 — were arrested. Two handguns were also recovered that night, police said.

Formal charges against the two suspects — who remain in custody at the Hennepin County Jail — are expected to come Thursday afternoon.

"I want to convey my sincere appreciation to the students, staff, community members, and our law enforcement partners that came together to bring a swift resolution to a horrific incident," Richfield police chief Jay Henthorne said in a news release.

"I can’t speak highly enough of the numerous federal, state, county and local emergency response personnel that came to assist the City of Richfield. It was a humbling reminder of the remarkable dedication and bravery that our first responders provide to our communities every day, especially in the times of greatest need."

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