MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara announced Wednesday that a 16-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the murder of 11-year-old Amir Lamar Atkins.
The suspect was taken into custody without incident on July 22 at approximately 9:01 a.m. in Apple Valley and booked into the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center.
“I am incredibly grateful to the hard work of the investigators who worked to complete a thorough investigation of this heinous crime,” said Chief O’Hara. “I am hopeful that this arrest brings a sense of justice for Amir and his family.”
The shooting
The shooting occurred on the afternoon of June 23 at Folwell Park, located on Dowling Avenue North. At approximately 2:08 p.m., Fourth Precinct officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area.
Preliminary information indicates that gunfire erupted within the park. Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle driving through the park and two other vehicles moving through the adjacent parking lot at the time of the shooting.
Shortly afterward, a resident sitting on his porch near Morgan Avenue North and Dowling Avenue North heard cries for help. He discovered Amir and two other males suffering from gunshot wounds outside his home. The resident placed Amir and one of the injured individuals into his vehicle and began driving toward the hospital. En route, he flagged down an officer near Penn and Dowling Avenues. The officer immediately removed Amir from the vehicle and initiated lifesaving efforts.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our precious Mir Mir, who left this world far too young at just 11 years old,” wrote Atkins’ family on his GoFundMe page. “In a moment of crisis, his older brother’s love shone through as he carried Amir, seeking help. A compassionate stranger then stepped in to rush them to medical care, but despite their valiant efforts, Amir could not be saved.”
Despite the efforts of police, fire, and EMS personnel, Amir was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Amir was a beacon of light in our lives—a joyful, loving child whose laughter filled our hearts,” his family continued. “He had a unique spark that touched everyone he met, and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled.”
Ongoing investigation
The Minneapolis Police Department launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Chief O’Hara emphasized the gravity of the incident and called on the public for assistance.
“I cannot emphasize enough how terrible it is to have an 11-year-old boy shot and killed in the middle of the day,” said O’Hara. “We need anyone with information to come forward so we can bring some sense of justice to this child’s family. We are following every lead, but we need the public’s help to solve this.”
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner later confirmed Amir Lamar Atkins as the victim and will release the official cause and manner of death.
“As we navigate this profound grief, we want to honor Amir’s memory and celebrate the beautiful life he lived,” said Atkins’ family. “Your support, thoughts, and prayers mean the world to us as we try to find strength during this unimaginable time. Thank you for holding our family in your hearts
How to help
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Minneapolis Police Department by emailing policetips@minneapolismn.gov or leaving a voicemail at 612-673-5845. Anonymous tips can be submitted to CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.CrimeStoppersMN.org. Information leading to an arrest and conviction may qualify for a financial reward.
