Steven Garcia, as shared with Gaby Del Valle:
I found myself on a frozen lake when news of a shooting broke through the Minnesota Star Tribune. I was covering a pond hockey event when a player mentioned they might not make it due to anticipated protests.
Arriving at the scene over three hours later, federal officers had already left, leaving behind local law enforcement like the Minneapolis Police Department and SWAT team, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnesota State Patrol.
Protesters had taken over intersections, barricading streets with trash cans and mattresses. Tensions rose as law enforcement used tear gas to disperse the crowds, driving over the makeshift barriers as they retreated.
The sound of tear gas canisters exploding echoed through the air, causing discomfort and burning sensations. People were prepared, having learned from past experiences like the George Floyd protests in 2020. Community members quickly mobilized with safety supplies and support for those affected.
Despite the cold weather, individuals gathered at the vigil for Alex Pretti, laying down flowers and spelling out his name with pinecones at the spot where he was tragically shot.
