Independence Day Chaos in Minneapolis: Fireworks Attacks, Disrespect for Law and Order

Knowledge Nuggets:

• Independence Day celebrations in Minneapolis turned chaotic as residents and police were attacked with fireworks.
• Commercial-grade fireworks were launched from a vehicle at Minnehaha Regional Park, and a journalist was targeted with Roman candles.
• Despite a significant police presence, the crowd was slow to disperse; 16 people, including 11 juveniles, were arrested.

Independence Day celebrations in Minneapolis spiraled into chaos, with fireworks used as weapons against buildings, residents, and law enforcement, as per multiple videos and eyewitness reports.

Independent journalist Rebecca Brannon tracked the anarchy throughout the night, reporting a disturbing scene of hundreds of individuals, mostly juveniles, who made the city a “war zone” with their reckless use of fireworks.

Brannon posted a multitude of videos showcasing the mayhem, with fireworks aimed at buildings, cars, and police officers.

“Hundreds set off a war zone of fireworks shooting at people and vehicles – behind and all around me,” Brannon reported.

“One person even started shooting roman candles at me while I filmed.”

(Warning: Graphic Video)

One video revealed a young man suffering severe injuries to his abdomen when a firework exploded amidst a crowd.

A news team from WCCO-TV was dangerously close to a similar explosion while conducting an interview about the ongoing chaos.

According to KMSP-TV, commercial-grade fireworks were launched from a vehicle at Minnehaha Regional Park.

Local resident Erin Gormley described her chilling encounter, “They were shooting explosives at me because I was protecting the property…I felt afraid. I was not going to leave my front door.”

The police force, involving units from Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Patrol, faced immense challenges controlling the unruly crowds.

Another local resident, Erin Hewitt, noted, “Once the police came, there was no leaving. They were just hanging out, they weren’t listening to the police whatsoever. It was pretty intense.”

In a press conference, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara decried the irresponsible and dangerous behavior.

“The targeting of innocent people with fireworks is unlawful, dangerous, and wholly unacceptable,” stated O’Hara.

Despite the defiance of the crowd, the police managed to arrest 16 people, of which 11 were juveniles.

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