SAINT PAUL, MN — The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension announced it has withdrawn from the investigation into a fatal shooting involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel in Minneapolis on Jan. 7, citing a lack of access to evidence and investigative materials.
According to BCA Superintendent Drew Evans, the agency was initially notified of the shooting that resulted in a woman’s death and, after consultation with local, state and federal authorities, agreed to conduct a joint investigation with the FBI. Later that day, the FBI informed the BCA that the U.S. Attorney’s Office had decided the FBI would solely lead the investigation, cutting off the BCA’s access to the scene, evidence and interviews. The BCA said it could not meet Minnesota’s investigative standards without full access and therefore withdrew.
The BCA stated it expects the FBI to complete a thorough investigation and share findings with appropriate state and federal prosecutors. The agency added it remains open to rejoining the investigation if federal authorities reconsider and allow a joint approach.
