Minneapolis Park Police officer injured after gun discharged during scuffle with man in Mueller Park

A Minneapolis Park Police officer was injured during a confrontation while arresting a man accused of inappropriately touching children at Mueller Park. The officer's weapon discharged during the struggle, but it remains unclear if the injury was due to a gunshot. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara revealed that the investigation will determine whether the officer or the suspect fired the weapon. The officer sustained a minor injury to his lower arm, while the suspect, known to law enforcement for prior assault cases, was taken to the hospital as a precaution. Witness Maia Aarsheim described hearing a pop and seeing officers pursue the suspect.

Park Police Chief Jason Ohotto confirmed that the incident began with a 911 call around 1:15 p. m. The park officer has five years with the park police and 30 years in law enforcement. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about public safety in local parks.