MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A sixth victim in last month’s Accent Signage Systems shooting spree has died after being removed from life support, according to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Production manager Eric Rivers had been in critical condition at Hennepin County Medical Center since the rampage on Sept. 27.
A family statement released by HCMC Thursday morning read: “Eric Rivers passed away peacefully last night. We are grateful for the incredible courage displayed by the men and women who responded to the emergency and the wonderful medical team at Hennepin County Medical Center, who cared for Eric. At this time, the family asks for privacy as we deal with this personal tragedy. We thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers.”
Six people were killed after being shot by 36-year-old Andrew Engeldinger, who then turned the gun on himself.
Police say Engeldinger began firing after being told he was losing his job at Accent for lateness and poor performance. The police report says he responded to the news by saying “Oh really,” taking out a gun and opening fire on his two managers, John Souter and Rami Cooks. Cooks later died at HCMC.
Then Engeldinger fired again as the company owner — Reuven Rahamim — tried to help his wounded employees. Rahamim died of his injuries.
Engeldinger also fatally shot employee Jacob Beneke in the sign display area, while employee Ron Edberg and UPS driver Keith Basinski were both shot dead in the loading dock.
On Thursday morning, Accent Signage released a statement: “We pray for Eric’s family and we ask that you respectfully allow them to grieve privately at this time.”
