As tensions over a police-involved death continue to escalate, authorities are urging protesters to refrain from violence and asking people to avoid ‘retail areas.’
On Wednesday and Thursday, violent protests erupted in Minneapolis and St. Paul over the death of George Floyd, who died after police kneeled on his neck for several minutes.
Video of Floyd’s death went viral and sparked outrage over police brutality. Since then, protesters have clashed with police in the streets, started numerous structure fires, and looted businesses.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called the activities in Minneapolis on Wednesday “extremely dangerous” and asked people to avoid the area.
On Thursday afternoon, rioting escalated to the point that Maplewood Police urged people to avoid “retail areas” because of the risk of flash looting.
Due to the potential for flash looting in Maplewood, Police are urging people to avoid retail areas until further notice. pic.twitter.com/4k5COxpLMi
— Maplewood Police MN (@MaplewoodPolice) May 28, 2020
The video below was captured in a commercial area in St. Paul on Thursday afternoon.
According to social media reports, objects are being thrown off bridges in Minneapolis as part of the protest.
Walz called in the National Guard on Thursday afternoon to respond to the riots.
Truck drivers who need to make a delivery or pickup in the area should call ahead to ensure that the business is open or consider delaying until the situation is safer.
April 29 marked the 28 year anniversary of the attack on truck driver Reginald Denny during the L.A. Riots in 1992. Denny was beaten so badly by rioters that he suffered 91 fractures in his skull.