A Failed Stop Ends in Shots Fired
Bloomington police attempted to pull over a vehicle traveling the wrong way near Old Shakopee Road and Killebrew Drive on Wednesday around 10:30 p.m. After executing two PIT maneuvers to stop the car, officers ordered the driver to exit — but he refused. The police deployed Pepperball rounds, and shortly afterward gunfire erupted from inside the vehicle. Officers returned fire. The suspect was struck in the hand, arrested, and taken to hospital; none of the officers were hurt.
Who Was the Suspect — And What Was Found
At a Thursday press conference, Police Chief Booker Hodges identified the driver as 21-year-old Joshua Rocha, who had prior conviction for DUI but no record of violent crime. Two firearms were recovered from Rocha’s vehicle. Chief Hodges said he suspected intoxication, though that has not yet been confirmed. Investigators believe the officers involved — each with five to 24 years of experience — acted in self-defence.
Investigation Underway, Area Secured
The BCA is leading the investigation into this officer-involved shooting. Roads near the scene were temporarily closed Thursday morning. Damage was visible: a black vehicle had shattered windows, and an unmarked police car bore bullet impacts — mirroring evidence shown at the press briefing. A spokesperson for Mall of America clarified the incident was unrelated to mall operations.
