National Guard steps in after looting, unrest in Minneapolis
[KSTP/Callan Gray]
The Minnesota National Guard had a noticeable presence in Minneapolis Thursday after looting and unrest in the downtown area Wednesday night.
Today, nearly 100 soldiers are available and supporting missions. Soldiers are assisting local law enforcement to ensure the safety of local residents and preserving property.
— MN National Guard (@MNNationalGuard) August 27, 2020
Another 300 soldiers from the Montevideo-based 1-151 Field Artillery-Thunder are being activated today. pic.twitter.com/b8OZ5k5Zsz
The National Guard said nearly 100 soldiers were supporting law enforcement, ensuring residents’ safety and preserving property Thursday, and another 300 soldiers from the Montevideo-based 1-151 Field Artillery-Thunder were also set to be activated Thursday.
There is a visible @MNNationalGuard presence along Nicollet Mall today.@KSTP pic.twitter.com/OdN7qqXsMx
— Callan Gray (@CallanGrayNews) August 27, 2020
In an update Thursday afternoon, Hennepin County Sheriff David Hutchinson says 132 people were arrested by multiple agencies on various offenses that included probable cause riot, burglary and obstruction.
UPDATE: 132 arrests made following unrest in Minneapolis
"We initiated response immediately," said Brig. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General. "It takes a certain amount of time to muster and deploy those forces."
"We will continue to work with the Governor’s staff and Commissioner of Public Safety protect life and preserve property for the citizens of Minnesota," Manke added.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced a citywide curfew will be in place from 8 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday.
Minneapolis city officials announce curfew to be in place Thursday night
Firefighters in the city also responded to four fires overnight. No injuries were reported and the fires remain under investigation.