Minneapolis shooting shows link to domestic abuse | Opinion
The mass shooting that took place in Minneapolis on Sept. 2 was a direct result of relationship violence.
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The person who caused harm was known to law enforcement and had a long history of relationship and sexual violence against multiple women. Witnesses and residents told police they’d heard him threaten to kill his ex-girlfriend.
During a custody exchange on Sept. 2, he shot his ex-girlfriend in front of their 5-year-old daughter. He also shot and killed two residents of the apartment building and shot and injured two apartment employees and two police officers.
Acts of mass shootings that escalate from relationship abuse incidents or homicides are becoming more common. In nearly 70% of mass shootings between 2014 and 2019, the perpetrator either killed at least one intimate partner or family member or had a history of relationship violence. (National Institutes of Health)
Use and access to firearms make relationship violence even more dangerous for victims and bystanders. Nearly every year in Minnesota, firearms are the most used weapon involved in relationship violence homicides. Men are the most frequent perpetrators and women are the most frequent victims. (Findings from Violence Free Minnesota, the coalition to end relationship abuse.)
Relationship violence stems from the drive to exert power and control over another person. Regardless of an individual’s mental health, housing circumstances, job instability-or any other circumstances, perpetrators believe they have the right to control people and situations, and use force if necessary.
Misogyny and entitlement exacerbate this. The tragedy on Sept. 2 stemmed from perpetrator’s need to control the ex-girlfriend who is the child’s mother. Male entitlement is more than the socially conditioned and supported belief that men have a right to enact violence; it is the belief that men have a right to control all situations, enforced by violence or threats of violence as necessary.
Men need to do better. We need to lead by example by demonstrating respectful, non-violent, and equal partnerships in personal and professional relationships. We can mentor boys and young men about emotional intelligence, consent, bodily autonomy, and solving conflicts without physical force or threats.
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We can also support robust public policy that works to keep firearms out of the hands of people with a history of intimate partner violence. Our community should know that male violence is not inevitable if we’re willing to make the necessary changes.
This isn’t an easy topic, but this isn’t the time for silence. We need to hold ourselves accountable for the health, safety and wellbeing of our community.
Charles Hempeck, Executive Director
Anna Marie’s Alliance
Domestic violence assistance in the St. Cloud area
Those facing domestic abuse can get assistance through the Minnesota DayOne hotline at (866) 223-1111.
St. Cloud-based domestic abuse advocacy organization and shelter Anna Marie’s Alliance can be reached at (320) 253-6900.
Victims of sexual assault can reach the Central Minnesota Sexual Assault Center at (320) 251-4357.
This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minneapolis shooting shows link to domestic abuse | Opinion
Reporting by Charles Hempeck, Executive Director Anna Marie’s Alliance, Special to the St. Cloud Times / St. Cloud Times
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This story was originally published September 20, 2026 at 6:03 AM.
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