Police Increase Patrols at River Bend Park Following Firearm Report
SAVAGE, MINNESOTA—A gathering of more than 30 people at River Bend Park on Sunday night quickly turned into a public safety scare when a witness reported someone pointing a firearm at another individual near the basketball courts. The incident, which occurred around 9:00 p.m. on May 11, 2025, prompted an immediate response from the Savage Police Department.
According to a nearby resident, the situation de-escalated when another witness honked their car horn to draw attention, causing the group to scatter and flee in vehicles. Police confirmed that no shots were fired and no injuries occurred. The case remains under active investigation.
“This could have been far worse,” said Police Chief Brady Juell. “We are actively investigating this situation and following up on all possible leads.”
Residents say the event highlights ongoing concerns tied to the basketball courts at River Bend Park located off of Joppa Ave South in Savage, Minnesota. Neighbors say this is the exact location where two shootings happened roughly two years ago and that they’ve repeatedly asked city officials to remove the hoops permanently.
“When the hoops are taken down, we don’t have problems,” one resident said. “But as soon as they’re back up, trouble returns.”
Location of the Savage, Minnesota incident.
Tensions are especially high following other recent violent incidents across the south metro. In Burnsville, a fatal apartment shooting occurred early Sunday morning. In Apple Valley, two large gatherings at Kelley Park in the last week led to police responses—one of which resulted in a teenager being critically injured after being shot in the face. Additionally, residents point to a shooting last August at Red Oak Park in Burnsville, where three people were injured, allegedly involving individuals previously seen at River Bend Park. However, police have not officially linked any of these incidents or confirmed connections between the groups involved.
Apple Valley Thursday Night Incident: Police Respond to Incident at Kelley Park in Apple Valley
Apple Valley Early Saturday Morning Incident: Teen Critically Injured in Apple Valley Park Shooting After Late-Night Altercation
Burnsville Fatal Shooting: Homicide Victim Identified in Burnsville Apartment Shooting
Burnsville Red Oak Park Shooting: Investigation Into Red Oak Park Shooting Continues; Police Are Still Seeking the Public’s Assistance
In response to Sunday’s scare, Savage police have increased patrols at River Bend Park and deployed Scott County’s mobile surveillance trailer, outfitted with cameras and flashing lights for 24/7 monitoring. Apple Valley police have similarly increased patrols around Kelley Park.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable enjoying our public spaces,” said Chief Juell. “The surveillance trailer allows for round-the-clock monitoring and also serves as a visible deterrent.”
Scott County's mobile surveillance trailer with flashing lights and cameras.
Police urge anyone with further information about Sunday’s incident to contact the Savage Police Department at 952-882-2600.
Chief Juell also reminded the public: “If you see something, say something. As we saw this weekend, community awareness can prevent violence before it escalates.”
Written by: Will Wight
