By WDEP Radio News
What was supposed to be a night of homecoming celebration at Eden Prairie High School turned into a chaotic emergency Friday night after gunfire erupted outside the stadium, leaving two people injured and forcing the evacuation of the football game.
Eden Prairie police said officers responded to reports of shots fired around 8:40 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, on the north side of Aerie Stadium as Eden Prairie faced Minnetonka in its homecoming football game. The two victims were transported to a hospital with injuries that were described as non-life-threatening.
Police Chief Matt Sackett said investigators believe the shooting was targeted. Neither victim is a student at Eden Prairie High School or Minnetonka High School, according to authorities. No arrests had been announced as of Saturday morning, and the investigation remains active.
Stadium Evacuated
The shooting immediately brought a heavy law enforcement response to the high school. Students, athletes, families and spectators were instructed to leave the stadium as police and emergency crews secured the area.
Those attending the game were directed toward the baseball diamonds or Round Lake Park, which was established as a reunification location for students, families and other attendees. People who remained inside the school were temporarily placed on a hold while officials managed the evacuation.
By approximately 9:52 p.m., officials confirmed that there was no active threat in the area. The hold inside the school was lifted shortly afterward, allowing those still inside to leave through designated exits.
Eden Prairie police, the Eden Prairie Fire Department and Hennepin County EMS assisted with the emergency response.
Game Interrupted
The incident occurred while Eden Prairie and Minnetonka were playing their homecoming matchup. The game was stopped during the second half, with Eden Prairie holding a 21-14 lead and 11:49 remaining in the fourth quarter, according to local reporting.
The game was postponed because of the incident and is scheduled to resume Saturday at 11 a.m., according to the latest reports.
Community Responds
Eden Prairie Public Schools praised students, families, staff and first responders for their response during the evacuation.
Superintendent Josh Swanson described the night as a difficult moment for the community while also highlighting the cooperation displayed during the emergency. He said the evacuation was completed with no additional injuries and that additional resources and staff would be available to support students and employees.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz also addressed the shooting, saying state officials were assisting local authorities with the investigation and expressing support for the students and families affected by the incident.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not released the identities or ages of the two people who were injured. Police also have not announced a suspect or explained what led to the shooting.
Because investigators believe the shooting was targeted, authorities are continuing to work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
The shooting remains an active investigation. Additional information is expected as investigators gather evidence and speak with witnesses.
WDEP Radio News will continue to follow this developing story as more information becomes available.
