Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis: Officers and Victim Identified

Authorities have released the identities of the officers and the man involved in a fatal shooting that took place in Minneapolis earlier this week. According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office, the victim has been identified as 39-year-old Michael Warren Ristow. He was shot multiple times on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, along the 3400 block of Hiawatha Avenue and later pronounced dead at Hennepin Healthcare before 10 p.m.

The Medical Examiner's Office has classified Ristow's death as a homicide, although it should be noted that this classification is a statutory function and not a legal determination of intent or culpability.

The three officers who fired their weapons have also been identified by the Minnesota BCA. They are identified as Enoch Langford, Abdirizaq Mumin, and Chaz Wilson. Langford has four years of experience, Mumin has two years, and Wilson has five years of experience in law enforcement.

According to reports, the incident unfolded when officers responded to a call about an armed man waving a gun in the area at around 9:19 p.m. The call came in shortly after another report of an armed man who was talking to himself on the 3000 block of 29th Avenue.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers spotted Ristow and attempted to make contact with him. However, he fled, prompting the officers to chase after him. During the pursuit, the BCA stated that the officers informed Ristow that he was under arrest.

Authorities have reported that Ristow reached a fence line and turned towards the police officers while holding a gun. In response, Officers Langford, Mumin, and Wilson discharged their weapons. Although none of the officers were injured, Ristow was struck and ultimately succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital, following administration of first aid by the same officers.

In the subsequent investigation, two stolen handguns and cartridge casings were found at the scene, contradicting earlier reports from the Minneapolis Police Department that only one handgun had been discovered. When questioned about whether the suspect had fired the weapon, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara mentioned that the gun appeared to be jammed.

The Minnesota BCA is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the shooting. This includes a review of body camera footage worn by the officers involved. Once completed, the BCA will present its findings to the Hennepin County Attorney's Office, who will determine if any charges should be filed.

Meanwhile, Chief O'Hara has placed the officers on standard administrative leave as the investigation unfolds. The incident has sparked concerns in the community, and many are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the investigation.