George Floyd – Protestors Set Minneapolis Police Precinct On Fire Amid Public Outcry Over His Death

George Floyd – Protestors Set Minneapolis Police Precinct On Fire Amid Public Outcry Over His Death

As previously reported, riots and protests have erupted in the streets of Minneapolis following the wrongful death of George Floyd by a police officer. Now it’s being reported that on Thursday night (May 28th) protesters took over Minneapolis’s 3rd precinct and set it on fire.  

Protestors light the Minneapolis 3rd precinct ablaze #minneapolisriots #Minneapolis pic.twitter.com/UAudy69W2T

— Zach Boyden-Holmes (@Boydenphoto) May 29, 2020

Video footage was shared online that showed crowds of people gathered around the building cheering and setting off fireworks as police officers fled the station in their vehicles. 

The moment Minneapolis police retreated from the 3rd precinct – which is now on fire. pic.twitter.com/yLpSzIVH5e

— Spinal Fluid on Tap (@Paddy21X) May 29, 2020

As the building burned, protesters can be heard chanting

“I can’t breathe”

These were the words George Floyd was heard saying as a police officer pinned down George Floyd’s neck with his knee.

Protestors chanting “I can’t Breath” as 3rd precinct burns #minneapolisriots #GeorgeFloydprotest pic.twitter.com/Tu1UH4gMvf

— Zach Boyden-Holmes (@Boydenphoto) May 29, 2020

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey shared in a news conference on Friday (May 29) why he made the decision to have the police officers leave the precinct. In his statement he said: 

“The symbolism of a building cannot outweigh the importance of life, of our officers or the public. We could not risk serious injury to anyone. And we will continue to patrol the Third Precinct entirely. We will continue to do our jobs in that area. Brick and mortar is not as important as life.”

Many people shared their reactions to the 3rd precinct being set on fire online. 

As the 3rd precinct is on fire. There’s fireworks.
This is the most American ish I’ve ever seen. The forefathers ate smiling. You could play the national anthem to this uprising against tyranny.

“And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air”

pic.twitter.com/ENdetUnnYK

— ???? ????? ? (@Mr_Yancy) May 29, 2020

The bodycam footage that displays the MPD’s interaction with George Floyd has been released. The video is heavily censored and shows two of the victim’s friends being arrested as well. The footage also shows a cop speaking to George Floyd’s friends and informing them that an ambulance is en route to come help Mr. Floyd.

What are your thoughts on the police station being set on fire? Let us know in the comments.