University of Minnesota police are increasing patrols in Minneapolis’s Dinkytown neighbourhood after two men were injured in a shooting on Sunday 6 September, days after a separate stabbing in the same area.
The gunfire broke out at about 2.41am near the junction of Fourth Street Southeast and 13th Avenue Southeast, where officers were responding to several disturbances. The two men suffered suspected gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.
Police detained several people at the scene and arrested a man accused of carrying a handgun without a permit. Several other firearms were recovered, while the shooting remains under investigation.
The incident followed an unrelated stabbing nearby in the early hours of Friday 4 September. Authorities said an altercation between two people ended with one person being stabbed.
Extra patrols planned in Dinkytown
University police chief Michael Davis said students should expect a more visible law enforcement presence, particularly in Dinkytown at weekends. Minneapolis police are also working with the university department as students return for the autumn term.
In a message to students, Dr Davis said the shooting involved a large crowd that was not affiliated with the university and acknowledged that the incident could leave people feeling unsettled as they became familiar with the area.
The university said it had already invested in improved lighting, additional patrols and partnerships with other agencies. University of Minnesota Police Department officers have expanded their service area into parts of Dinkytown under an agreement with the City of Minneapolis.
Students living in the neighbourhood said the extra police presence was noticeable, particularly on weekend nights. Hailey Roob, a university sophomore, said the shooting was alarming because it had happened close to where she lived, although she still considered the area relatively safe.
Meredith Pegg, a senior, said officers had been driving through residential alleys at night, which she described as reassuring. Other students said they felt comfortable during the day but were more cautious about walking home after dark.
The university has reminded students about emergency kiosks linked directly to 911, security escorts and free rides around campus and nearby neighbourhoods. Electronic lockdown buttons are also being installed on classroom doors.
