A teenager has been taken into police custody for allegedly causing the death of one person and injuring six others in a shooting that occurred at a music venue for the LGBTQ+ community.
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Police in Minneapolis have apprehended 18-year-old Dominic James Burris for the alleged murder of one person and injury of six others at a LGBTQ+ punk rock music venue, Nudieland, on August 11, 2023. Burris and his suspected partner, 17-year-old Cyrell Ernest Boyd, now face seven felony charges, with prosecutors believing their actions were fueled by anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment.
Witnesses report that Burris and Boyd attempted to flirt with two lesbian women at the venue, but became violent after being rejected. They returned less than a minute later with firearms, shooting at the crowd.
The shooting occurred during a double celebration at Nudieland, resulting in six people being injured and the death of 35-year-old musician, August Golden. One victim suffered severe injuries to their organs, leading to the removal of a kidney.
As investigations unfolded, Boyd was identified through DNA found on a cigarette butt at the scene, but is still at large. Police also recovered nine discharged bullet casings from two different guns in a neighboring yard, further implicating the suspects.
Witnesses reported hearing derogatory comments about the sexual orientation of attendees before the shooting. Burris and Boyd now face charges of aiding and abetting second-degree intentional murder and six counts of felony assault with a firearm. While Minnesota does not have a specific hate crime charge, prosecutors may seek harsher penalties if bias motivation is proven.
The absence of hate crime legislation in Minnesota has sparked discussions on how to address crimes motivated by prejudice. The state has recently passed laws to protect LGBTQ+ rights, including sanctuary status for trans youth seeking gender-affirming care, a ban on conversion therapy, and the repeal of outdated sodomy laws.
The shooting at Nudieland has deeply affected the LGBTQ+ community, with many feeling fear and grief over the senseless violence. A GoFundMe campaign for the victims has raised over $211,000, highlighting the support for those impacted by the tragedy.
Quinn McClurg, a transgender woman who frequented Nudieland, emphasized the venue’s importance as a safe space for marginalized communities to gather and socialize. The DIY punk scene has long been a haven for individuals who face discrimination or violence in mainstream spaces.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty condemned the shooting as a targeted attack on a community already vulnerable to prejudice and violence. As a result, discussions on inclusivity and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals in public spaces have been reignited.
As the legal proceedings continue, the LGBTQ+ community in Minneapolis is still coping with the aftermath of the shooting at Nudieland. Calls for justice, solidarity, and support for the victims have shown the resilience of a community determined to stand together in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the tragic events at Nudieland have brought attention to the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society. The response from law enforcement, prosecutors, and the community at large will be essential in ensuring that justice is served and that such acts of violence are not tolerated.
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