Another chaotic Fourth of July unfolded in parts of Minneapolis as reports of trouble and fireworks filled the air. The area near Boom Island, which was the scene of a shooting last year, once again became a hotspot for mayhem. WCCO photographer Nick Boeke narrowly avoided being hit by a firework during the chaos.
In the early hours of the morning, a WCCO camera captured numerous officers from Minneapolis, the Park Police, and the Minnesota State Patrol near Boom Island. Using a bullhorn, the officers instructed dozens of people to clear the area and go home. Boeke had been interviewing a witness who witnessed the chaos just moments before a firework exploded next to them.
According to the witness, “Cops, people fighting and stuff. There were people throwing fireworks at cops and everything, it was crazy.” The witness clarified that they personally had not participated in the chaos.
By around 2 a.m., the area had quieted down for the most part. However, police in other parts of Minneapolis were taking no chances. A significant police presence, including state troopers, was observed around Bde Maka Ska, with several roads closed off in the area. In downtown Minneapolis, roads were also shut down to ensure the safety of the streets.
WCCO is currently awaiting information on the staffing levels of the police department compared to last year. Last year
How did the chaotic Fourth of July near Boom Island in Minneapolis compare to the previous year in terms of police presence and resources?
Rewrite: Another chaotic Fourth of July unfolded in parts of Minneapolis as reports of trouble and fireworks filled the air. Unfortunately, the area near Boom Island, which was the scene of a shooting last year, once again became a hotspot for mayhem. Photographer Nick Boeke from WCCO narrowly avoided being hit by a firework during the chaos.
During the early hours of the morning, a WCCO camera captured numerous officers from Minneapolis, the Park Police, and the Minnesota State Patrol near Boom Island. This strong presence was necessary as officers used a bullhorn to instruct dozens of people to clear the area and go home. Boeke had just finished interviewing a witness when a firework exploded nearby, causing a dangerous situation.
According to the witness, there was a mixture of police officers and people fighting each other. Some individuals even resorted to throwing fireworks at the police, creating an alarming and chaotic scene. It’s important to note that the witness claimed not to have participated in the chaos themselves.
By approximately 2 a.m., the situation had finally quieted down in the area near Boom Island. However, police in other parts of Minneapolis were taking no chances in ensuring public safety. Bde Maka Ska saw a significant police presence, including state troopers, and several roads were temporarily closed off. In downtown Minneapolis, roads were also shut down to maintain the safety of the streets.
WCCO is currently awaiting information on the staffing levels of the police department compared to last year. This data will provide insight into any changes in police presence and resources.
“Another year, another setback for Minneapolis as chaos once again marred the Fourth of July celebrations. It’s disheartening to see the recurring violence overshadow the spirit of patriotism and unity. Urgent measures are needed to restore order and ensure the safety of the community during these important festivities.”