MINNEAPOLS — Through hugs and tears, officers from Minneapolis, St. Paul and the extended law enforcement community gathered not far from where Officer Jamal Mitchell lost his life to mourn and come together.
Mitchell represented everything the profession has to offer, officers said during the Saturday afternoon meeting.
“It was very hard, not only for me, but for many others who knew him,” said Minneapolis police officer Krystal Scott.
Agent Scott is a friend of Mitchell’s. Scott said she met Mitchell through his volunteer work.
“I think he sees that there were people behind him who didn’t even know him,” Scott said.
Officers paid tribute with bouquets of flowers on Saturday afternoon. They shared personal stories of Officer Mitchell’s impact and held hands in prayer.
WCCO
“Police officers are people and they are hurting right now,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “I think he is representative of the vast majority of the men and women of this police force who continue to put their lives on the line for the people of this community.”
“It’s a conversation that no mayor wants to have,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey.
Both Mayor Frey and Chief O’Hara said they have had heartbreaking conversations with Mitchell’s grieving loved ones.
WCCO
“Just to let them know that they are loved, that they are supported, that they are appreciated,” O’Hara said.
“Jamal Mitchell will forever be remembered in the city of Minneapolis,” Frey said.
An outpouring of support for not only a model officer, but a father and hero.
“He was a key piece. He’s our changemaker. He should be everyone’s changemaker,” Scott said.
