US: Police deploy tear gas to disperse protesters outside Brooklyn Center Police Department, Minnesota, the evening of April 11 /update 2

Event

Police have reportedly deployed flashbangs and tear gas to disperse demonstrators outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department building at Humboldt Avenue in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, the evening of April 11. The response came after protesters refused to heed orders to leave the area. There have been no immediate reports of injuries. Demonstrators remain scattered near the police station and may attempt to reconvene at the protest site. Officials have reportedly suspended metro transit services at the Brooklyn Central Transit Center. Unconfirmed reports suggest looting may have occurred in some areas.

The protest follows a fatal officer-involved shooting during an attempted traffic stop near 63rd North and Lee North avenues the afternoon the same day. Authorities have yet to confirm the driver's identity, though witness accounts suggest the deceased was an African-American. Demonstrators had gathered near the incident location before moving to the current protest site outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely in the coming hours. Further clashes are possible.

The incident site is approximately 12 km (7 miles) northwest of Minneapolis.

Advice

Avoid the affected areas until the situation stabilizes, and authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the protest sites.