Minneapolis descended into chaos after a fatal confrontation involving federal agents triggered violent street unrest, with crowds storming law enforcement and blaming city and state leadership for the breakdown in order.
Federal authorities say an armed man was shot and killed in what they describe as self-defense during an encounter with agents. Before any official findings were released, large groups of protesters flooded the area, surrounding officers, throwing objects, and attempting to block federal operations.
Law enforcement sources say agents were forced into defensive positions as the situation spiraled, turning parts of the city into what officers described as a riot-level emergency. Tactical units were deployed as fires, vandalism, and direct confrontations spread through nearby blocks.
Political outrage followed almost immediately. Critics accused Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz of fostering an environment where hostility toward law enforcement escalates into violence, arguing that repeated attacks on federal authority have consequences on the ground.
Officials have urged calm as investigations continue into the shooting and the unrest. Federal agencies say additional arrests may follow as evidence from the riots is reviewed.
