Minneapolis, MN – A Minneapolis driver who pulled over for a routine traffic stop allegedly died by suicide Tuesday evening, prompting a state investigation and national discussion about crisis response during police encounters.
According to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the incident unfolded just before 7 p.m. Tuesday near 36th Street and N. Thomas Avenue. Detectives attempted to stop a vehicle displaying no license plates. As two detectives approached the car, they reportedly heard a gunshot. Upon reaching the vehicle, officers found the driver slumped over the steering wheel.
First responders removed the driver from the car and began life-saving measures. Medics arrived and continued aid, but the driver was pronounced dead at the scene from what officials say was an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities report that no law enforcement officer allegedly discharged a weapon during the incident, and a passenger in the vehicle was unharmed.
Because law enforcement was present at the time, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) was called in to conduct an independent investigation. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner is expected to release the driver’s identity and official cause of death in the coming days.
“This incident is devastating, not only for the family and friends of the deceased but also for those who witnessed it,” the Sheriff’s Office stated, offering condolences to the driver’s loved ones.
The case is drawing attention to the challenges surrounding traffic stops and mental health emergencies nationwide.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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