BROOKLYN PARK (WCCO) — In about a 48-hour span, four people have been killed in a Brooklyn Park suburb. Now, police are meeting with residents to talk about the homicides – and offer solutions to the violence.
Ashantai Finch is the latest victim in Brooklyn Park. She was stabbed and killed late last night at her home off Hampshire Court North.
That’s just down the street from the triple murder that happened off College Park Drive Monday. DeLois Brown was shot and killed. Her parents, James Bolden Senior and Clover Bolden, were also attacked and killed.
On Wednesday, police met with residents at a College Park community meeting.
“Having this forum just allows people to calm their nerves a little bit,” said Brooklyn Park Police inspector Todd Milburn.
Hundreds showed up to ask questions about the latest violence, expressing their concerns about just how safe their families are.
“You don’t know why it happened, so you’re going to be afraid until you get a reason,” said neighbor Sue Cunnien
Many at the meeting just learned of the fourth homicide. Police arrested a suspect in Finch’s death, but it does little to help ease residents’ worries.
So, many here are now calling on each other.
“I want to be a good neighbor and I want my neighbors to be a good neighbor to me and hopefully we can keep an eye on any suspicious activities,” said neighbor Mya Vezina.
Police tell us they have increased patrols in the neighborhoods, not because they feel there’s a risk, but to help calm the fears of those living here.
Police also hope Wednesday night’s meeting will spawn more community watch groups.
