On Tuesday, St. Paul police released 20 minutes of body and traffic camera recordings detailing the moments leading to the police shooting of Earl Bennett, a 40-year-old man suspected of killing three people in a Shooting Incident in Minneapolis. The incident occurred at a busy intersection on October 28, 2023, around 8 p.m.
Incident Overview
The footage shows officers encountering Bennett as he walked barefoot and shirtless along University Avenue while holding a gun to his head. Police attempted to de-escalate the situation by asking him to lower the weapon and deploying less-lethal projectiles. However, when Bennett pointed the gun at officers, four officers responded by firing their weapons.
Key Details from the Footage
Police Response: The video from Officer Chase Robinson’s body camera shows bystanders alerting officers about a man with a gun. Officers shouted, “Drop the gun!” as Bennett, who claimed the gun was unloaded, pointed it at them.
De-escalation Attempts: Officers urged Bennett to get on the ground and assured him, “We want to help you!” while firing less-lethal projectiles to disarm him.
Confrontation: Bennett was seen pointing the gun at officers moments before they fired, resulting in a barrage of gunshots. Bystanders expressed shock, with one remarking, “Y’all did not have to do that!” after Bennett fell to the ground.
Chief of Police Statement
Police Chief Axel Henry addressed the situation, stating, “Our city experienced another episode of gun violence last week.” He emphasized the dangerous circumstances, given the busy location and the presence of pedestrians and vehicles, expressing relief that no one else was injured.
Ongoing Investigation
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is currently investigating the incident. The officers involved in the shooting include:
Officer Shawn Marlowe: 10 years of service, fired a rifle.
Officer Chase Robinson: 10 years of service, fired a handgun.
Sgt. Lamichael Shead: 8 years of service, discharged a handgun.
Officer Blake Steffen: 4 years of service, fired a rifle.
Officer Peov Suon: 3 years of service, fired less-lethal rounds.
Officer Austin Borowicz: 3 years of service, fired less-lethal rounds.
Criminal Charges Against Bennett
On Monday, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office charged Bennett with three counts of second-degree murder. The charges stem from an incident where he allegedly shot three individuals inside a tent in a homeless encampment before fleeing on an electric bike. He also faces attempted first-degree murder charges related to a shooting at a sober house earlier the same day.
Bennett has a criminal history that includes felony convictions for fleeing law enforcement, assaulting police, escaping custody, and drug possession.
Conclusion
The events leading to the police shooting of Earl Bennett highlight ongoing issues of gun violence and the challenges faced by law enforcement in rapidly evolving and dangerous situations. The investigation by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension continues as the community seeks answers and accountability.
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