Wednesday, June 27 2012 10:12 PM EDT2012-06-28 02:12:30 GMT
Though it may seem like there are a lot of stories highlighting crime on the north side of Minneapolis, overall trends have been improving -- and there's a lot more to the story than the numbers.
Though it may seem like there are a lot of stories highlighting crime on the north side of Minneapolis, overall trends have been improving -- and there's a lot more to the story than the numbers.
MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) -
The ATF and Minneapolis police have announced two separate $10,000 rewards for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for two murders involving young children.
The two unsolved murders are the Dec. 26 shooting of 3-year-old Terrell Mayes and the June 26 shooting of 5-year-old Nizzel George.
Mayes was killed after a stray bullet entered his home at 26th Ave. N. and Colfax Ave. N. and shot the toddler as he climbed the stairs.
George was killed when multiple gunshots were fired at his home at 45th Ave. N. and Bryant Ave. N. The boy collapsed on the couch and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
"This is an extraordinary expansion of the criminal use of firearms. The loss of a child is a casualty beyond anyone's tolerance," said Bernard Zapor, ATF special agent in charge. "There can be no higher priority than resolution for these families."
Crime Stoppers and MAD DADS also have offered more than $10,000 in reward money for information in the shooting of Terrell Mayes. A $1,000 reward in Nizzel George's case was offered earlier this week.
Anyone with information about these crimes should contact the Minneapolis Police Department Homicide at (612) 673-2941 or the Minneapolis Police Tips Line at (612) 692-TIPS (8477). All calls will be kept confidential.
Terrell Mayes (left) and Nizzel George (right)
