05 June 2021

Minneapolis scene of protests again after man shot dead by US marshals

05 June 2021

Protesters have faced off with police in Minneapolis over the fatal shooting of a man by members of a US marshals task force.

Photos from the scene following a vigil for Winston Boogie Smith Jr showed fires in the street and a line of officers standing guard in the city in the US state of Minnesota.

It is the second night of protests in response to the fatal shooting on Thursday in Minneapolis’ Uptown area.

Minneapolis protests (AP)

Authorities said 32-year-old Mr Smith was wanted on suspicion of a weapons violation and had fired a gun before two deputies shot him while he was inside a parked vehicle.

Members of the US marshals fugitive task force had been trying to arrest him on a warrant for allegedly being in possession of a gun.

Family and friends described Mr Smith as a father-of-three who was often harassed by police.

They are demanding transparency in the investigation and have asked that anyone who might have video footage to come forward.

Memorial to Winston Boogie Smith Jr (AP)

Police said some people vandalised buildings and stole from businesses after the shooting on Thursday.

Nine people were arrested on possible charges including suspicion of riot, assault, arson and damage to property.

The fatal shooting comes with Minneapolis still on edge since the death of George Floyd just over a year ago, and the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright by an officer in nearby Brooklyn Centre in April.

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