Crime & Safety
Washington County, MN Shooting Leaves 2 Dead, Park Shut Down
Cottage Grove, MN – Two people were found dead from gunshot wounds Wednesday morning at Ravine Park in Cottage Grove, prompting a major law enforcement response, the closure of a popular public park a
By Wesley Grant · 2026-11-04T17:15:42.849Z
Cottage Grove, MN – Two people were found dead from gunshot wounds Wednesday morning at Ravine Park in Cottage Grove, prompting a major law enforcement response, the closure of a popular public park and temporary disruptions to nearby government facilities in Washington County.
According to the Washington County Sheriff 's Office, officers from the sheriff's office and Cottage Grove Police Department responded to reports of shots fired at approximately 6:11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4.
When officers arrived, they encountered a witness who reported a shooting. Responding authorities subsequently located two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators secured the area, established a perimeter around Ravine Park and interviewed the witness as multiple law enforcement agencies assisted with the response.
Authorities say the shooting was not random.
Preliminary findings indicate the two individuals knew each other, according to the sheriff's office. Officials emphasized that there is no active threat to the surrounding community.
The incident has also affected access to several public facilities.
Ravine Park remains closed until further notice while investigators continue their work. The Washington County Service Center will remain closed Wednesday.
Cottage Grove City Hall and the HERO Center have reopened following the initial emergency response.
Authorities said additional information regarding the Washington County Service Center's reopening will be released when available.
The investigation involves several agencies, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Minnesota State Patrol, St. Paul Park Police Department, Oakdale Police Department, Woodbury Police Department and Cottage Grove Fire.
The Ramsey County Medical Examiner's Office will handle identification of the deceased and notification of their families.
Officials have not publicly released the identities of the two individuals or detailed the circumstances leading to the shooting.
The sheriff's office said further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
Residents should avoid Ravine Park while the closure remains in effect.