On April 29, 2025, a tragic shooting incident in Minneapolis claimed the life of 27-year-old Evan Denny, along with three other victims. The shooting occurred late at night, and authorities responded to the scene to find multiple individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Denny, a male victim, was pronounced dead at the scene alongside 17-year-old Joseph Goodwin and 20-year-old Merelle White.
A fourth victim, 28-year-old Leras Rainey, succumbed to his injuries later at a hospital.
Law enforcement officials quickly launched an investigation into the incident, leading to the arrest of 34-year-old James Duane Ortley. Ortley was apprehended by an FBI SWAT team and the U.S. Marshals North Star Fugitive Task Force on April 30. He was formally charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder, attempted murder, and illegal firearm possession. Authorities revealed that Ortley had a lengthy criminal history, including prior felony convictions.
According to the criminal complaint, Ortley was inside the same vehicle as the victims when he opened fire from the back seat. All five individuals were shot in the head, with three dying at the scene and two being rushed to the hospital. One of the surviving victims, despite suffering a severe gunshot wound to the face, was able to communicate with police and identified Ortley as the sole shooter. The suspect was known by several street names, including 'Baby J' and 'Little James.'
Officials described the shooting as a shocking act of violence that deeply impacted the community. The Hennepin County Attorney's Office announced plans to amend charges against Ortley to reflect the fourth murder. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara praised investigators for their swift action in bringing charges against the suspect. The case remains under investigation as authorities work to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
