Over the course of a weekend, two separate shootings occurred at homeless encampments in Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to three others. The police believe that the two shootings may be related, as both were triple shootings that took place within a short span of time near each other. The increase in violence near homeless encampments has been attributed to the prevalence of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that has led to a surge in drug-related violence.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed his concern over the escalating violence in and around homeless encampments, emphasizing the role of fentanyl in driving the crime. He urged residents of the encampments to accept the available resources to address drug addiction and mental health issues. Police Chief Brian O’Hara also condemned the shootings as “outrageous” and stressed the need for residents to seek help and support.
The victims of the shootings have been identified as Deven Leonard Caston, Louis Lemons Jr., and Christopher Washington, all of whom died from multiple gunshot wounds. The police are actively investigating the incidents, but as of now, no arrests have been made. The shootings have highlighted the challenges faced by individuals living in homeless encampments and the urgent need for intervention and support to address the underlying issues contributing to the violence.
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