Minneapolis police 3rd Precinct building on fire; city asks those in area to move away due to potential gas leak
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Protests in the Twin Cities are continuing Thursday night after George Floyd’s death.
The Minneapolis Police Department’s 3rd Precinct building is on fire as protests continue in Minneapolis and St. Paul on Thursday night.
Minneapolis Police spokesman John Elder said all staff was evacuated from the building around 10 p.m. and that protesters forcibly entered the building and ignited several fires.
The City of Minneapolis said they have heard unconfirmed reports that gas lines to the 3rd Precinct have been cut and other explosive materials are in the building. In the event the building explodes, people in the area asked to retreat to avoid potential danger.
We’re hearing unconfirmed reports that gas lines to the Third Precinct have been cut and other explosive materials are in the building.
— City of Minneapolis (@CityMinneapolis) May 29, 2020
If you are near the building, for your safety, PLEASE RETREAT in the event the building explodes.
The St. Paul Police Department added that over 170 businesses have been either looted or damaged or both, as of late Thursday night. They also said no injuries had yet been reported.
As Thursday turns to Friday, our officers continue to work shoulder-to-shoulder with local, state, federal and fire partners to protect St. Paul.
— Saint Paul Police Department (@sppdmn) May 29, 2020
More than 170 businesses damaged or looted. Dozens of fires. Thankfully, no reports of serious injuries. Calm on the horizon.
Protesters are also seen blocking some traffic on Interstate 35W near 3rd Street in downtown Minneapolis.
[KSTP]
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey says he is working with the Minneapolis Fire Department in response to the night’s accelerated protests.
We are working with @MinneapolisFire to deliver resources and respond for a beloved neighborhood in our city. We all need to work together to ensure the safety of our friends, family, and Minneapolis residents. And right now working together means clearing the area.
— Mayor Jacob Frey (@MayorFrey) May 29, 2020
A large fire was started across the street from Target on University Avenue in St. Paul at around 9 p.m.
KSTP Reporter Beth McDonough was near the scene and reports that firefighters were asking police for protection so they could battle the flames.
2 businesses on fire at University and Syndicate in St. Paul… pic.twitter.com/0wC0tOAFck
— Beth McDonough (@bmcdonoughkstp) May 29, 2020
Earlier, an estimated 4,000 people marched in downtown Minneapolis.
Meanwhile, fires were started at a few businesses in St. Paul.
McDonough captured pictures of firefighters at a Napa Auto Parts on University Avenue. She reported that at least two other nearby businesses had smoke coming from them, too.
Napa Auto Parts on Umiversity on fire…one of half a dozen biz in area with smoke pic.twitter.com/2Kc3ixYup0
— Beth McDonough (@bmcdonoughkstp) May 28, 2020
St. Paul Police confirmed the fire at Napa.
A large fire has broken out at the Napa Auto Parts Store at 1271 University Avenue West. Please avoid the area.
— Saint Paul Police Department (@sppdmn) May 28, 2020
Shortly before 10 p.m., protesters were seen on traffic cameras walking on Interstate 35W near Hiawatha Avenue.
VIDEO: Chopper 5 flies above protesters in downtown Minneapolis responding to George Floyd death
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