Shoot-out on U of M Fraternity Row

In a city on pace to experience 10,000 “shots fired” calls, Friday night’s gun battle on the University of Minnesota’s Fraternity Row stands out. Dramatic video captured much of the events as nearly 30 seconds of gunfire erupted on University Ave. A 15-year-old was shot during the gunfire, and a “help” call went out, resulting in a response of officers from all Minneapolis precincts, the U of M Police, and the Minnesota State Patrol.

1721 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, is billed as the “Student Coop,” but recent reports indicated that no actual students resided at the address. The address has become a magnet for violence since the spring of 2021, prompting the property owner to evict the tenants and board up the building — though the problems continue. 

The yearlong ordeal should call into question the University’s prioritization of safety on campus and should cause a walk-back on their very public break from partnering with the Minneapolis Police Department.

To learn more:

Fox 9: Shooting at 1721 University Ave leaves 15-year-old injured, crowd scrambling

Kare 11: University of Minnesota students, parents raise alarm about crime concerns along University Avenue