A peaceful Sunday evening at Boom Island Park turned tragic when gunfire erupted during a large gathering, leaving 23-year-old Stageina Whiting dead and five men wounded. The shooting, which unfolded just after:30 p.m., sent more than 100 people fleeing as police arrived to a chaotic scene littered with evidence and medical debris.
According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara, the violence appeared to stem from an altercation that escalated rapidly, with multiple shooters believed to be involved. One of the wounded remains in critical condition, while others are recovering from non-life-threatening injuries Authorities described the aftermath as resembling a "war zone," with a disturbing number of shell casings found at the riverside park.
Whiting, remembered by friends and family as a hardworking young mother, leaves behind an 8-month-old daughter. The community gathered for a vigil to honor her memory, as questions remain about what led to the violence.
No arrests have been made, and investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has prompted city officials to review safety measures at Boom Island Park, including increased patrols and the installation of surveillance cameras The Minneapolis Police Department has also relaunched its "Operation Safe Summer" initiative in response to concerns about rising violence as summer begins.
Despite the tragedy, neighbors say Boom Island Park remains an important and generally safe gathering place, but the recent violence has left the community shaken and searching for answers.