A team of Minnesota National Guard members and Minneapolis police officers were targeted in a drive-by shooting in the city early Sunday, authorities said.
Two guards sustained minor injuries when someone in a light-colored SUV shot at the “neighborhood security team” in Minneapolis at approximately 4:19 a.m., the Minnesota National Guard said in a statement.
One guard was treated at a local hospital after being cut through broken glass and the other “suffered only superficial injuries,” the statement said.
“I am relieved to know that none of our Guardsmen has been seriously injured,” said Major General Shawn Manke, adjutant general of the Minnesota National Guard.
“This event highlights the volatility and tension in our communities right now. I ask for peace as we work through this difficult time. “
The city is on edge amid the trial of ex-Minneapolis agent Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd and protests over the fatal police shooting of Daunte Wright in Brooklyn Center, a suburb of Minneapolis.
The Minnesota National Guard was activated as part of the “Operation Safety Net” concerted effort with local law enforcement “to protect people, freedom of speech and property” during both the trial and the protests, the statement said.
Gov. Tim Walz said he spoke to the two injured guards, one in their 30s and the other in their 40s, and said they are “fine,” CNN said.
“But it highlights how dangerous the situation can become,” Walz told local station WCCO.
The Democrat also urged calmness ahead of the Chauvin trial’s verdict. Jurors will start the deliberations on Monday.
“The verdict will be a pivotal point in our state’s history, and how we respond to it will shape us,” he said.