Governor Walz Responds to Mall of America Shooting

Statement

Governor Tim Walz today responded to a shooting at the Mall of America. Condemning the violence, Governor Walz pledged to continue the largest state law enforcement presence in the Twin Cities in state history.

"Tonight's violence at the Mall of America is unacceptable," said Governor Walz . "These brazen incidents will not be tolerated. State resources are on the scene, we have offered our full support, and we will maintain close communication with Bloomington police to apprehend those responsible. We are committed to maintaining an unprecedented state law enforcement presence in the Twin Cities until we put a stop to this rise in crime."

The State Patrol have made hundreds of traffic stops in an effort to help stop illegal street racing, dangerous driving, and other criminal activity. Those traffic stops led to dozens of DWI arrests and more than 100 citations for driving without a valid license.

Governor Walz has deployed the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the Minnesota State Patrol (MSP) to work to reduce the rise in crimes involving guns, carjackings, street racing and other violent crimes plaguing metro communities. The State Patrol significantly increased its presence around the Twin Cities over the last few weeks by adding 20 additional troopers and aviation resources to designated areas.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and its partner agencies are focused on homicides, shootings and other gun-related crimes. Since their effort began in the spring, the BCA and its violent crime initiative partners have also worked to disrupt robberies and aggravated assaults and continue to pursue and arrest individuals wanted on felony warrants.

Since spring, Governor Walz allocated nearly $7 million federal American Rescue Plan funds towards the state's public safety efforts. These funds are being used to combat violent crime and support victims of crime across the state.

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