Man Killed Outside Work After Confronting Criminal In Minneapolis: Police

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A man in his 40s was fatally shot outside his workplace Thursday morning after confronting a suspected thief behind a south Minneapolis business, according to police.

Officers were called around 6:55 a.m. to the 2600 block of 32nd Avenue South, where they found the man with a life-threatening gunshot wound in a parking lot.

Despite lifesaving efforts, he died at the scene, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said.

Investigators believe the victim exited the business just before 6:30 a.m. and confronted someone who was attempting to steal from an unoccupied vehicle. During a brief struggle, the man was shot, and the suspect fled before officers arrived. About 20 minutes later, a coworker found the victim and called 911.

“This tragic killing occurred outside the victim’s workplace where he should have felt safe,” O’Hara said in a statement. “This death occurred during what appeared to be a theft from a vehicle, which is an incredibly petty and minor offense for someone to lose their life over.”

O’Hara emphasized the importance of calling police when witnessing a crime in progress, reminding the public that no amount of property is worth a life. He called it senseless and tragic for anyone to lose their life over a petty theft.

Forensic scientists processed the scene and collected evidence. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office will release the man’s name and the official cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Minneapolis police by emailing policetips@minneapolismn.gov or calling 612-673-5845.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.CrimeStoppersMN.org.

Information leading to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a reward.