Justine Damond Shooting: Witness Is Interviewed

Agents from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) have identified a witness to fatal police shooting of Justine Damond. This individual was seen bicycling eastbound on West 51st Street immediately before the shooting and stopped at the scene and watched as the officers provided medical assistance to Justine Damond.

Authorities said the individual has been cooperative and provided an interview Friday. Minneapolis Police Officer Mohamed Noor, who shot Damond, has not provided a statement regarding the incident and has declined to be interviewed by BCA agents.

Noor’s attorney has not provided any update about when, if ever, an interview would be possible. Under the law, the BCA cannot compel the testimony of the officer.

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The BCA said it "understands the urgency of this case" and is proceeding as rapidly as possible without compromising the integrity and thoroughness of the investigation.

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Forensic testing continues and evidence is being examined. BCA agents said they will conduct any additional interviews, as necessary.

The BCA continues to brief the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office about all evidence and information obtained in this investigation to date.

As it does in all investigations, the BCA will present its findings without recommendations to the county attorney for review once the investigation is complete. It is common for a county attorney to request follow-up information when reviewing a case, according to a news release.

The BCA’s investigation into the shooting is active and ongoing, and all information that is public at this time has been released.

Minnesota law classifies investigative data as confidential or protected nonpublic while the investigation is active. Public data in the investigative file will be available when the case is closed.

Photo by Stephen Govel, used with permission