MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins, Timberwolves and Wild all postponed scheduled Monday home games because of safety concerns following the fatal police shooting of a Black man and the potential for unrest in the area.
The Twins postponed their game against the Boston Red Sox. They were scheduled to begin a four-game series Monday afternoon at Target Field. The Twins said their decision was made in consultation with Major League Baseball and state and local officials. There was no word yet about rescheduling or the status of games set for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
The shooting of 20-year-old Daunte Wright occurred Sunday after a traffic stop in Brooklyn Center, a suburb adjacent to Minneapolis. The death sparked violent protests, with officers in riot gear clashing with demonstrators into Monday morning. The Brooklyn Center police chief said the shooting was accidental, as the officer involved intended to fire a stun gun and not a handgun during a struggle with Wright. Police were trying to arrest him on an outstanding warrant.
The metropolitan area already has been on edge because of the ongoing trial of the first of four police officers charged in George Floyd’s death last May.
“Out of respect for the tragic events that occurred yesterday in Brooklyn Center, and following the additional details in this evolving situation, the Minnesota Twins have decided it is in the best interests of our fans, staff, players and community to not play today’s game,” the organization’s statement said. “The Minnesota Twins organization extends its sympathies to the family of Daunte Wright.”
The Timberwolves were to have hosted the Brooklyn Nets. A statement from the NBA team said: “Yesterday’s tragic event, involving the life of Daunte Wright, once again leaves our community mourning. After consultation with the League, and local and state officials, we believe postponing tonight’s game versus the Brooklyn Nets is the best decision. Information regarding the rescheduling of tonight’s game and ticket details will be released in the near future. The Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx extend our sincere sympathies to the family of Daunte Wright.”
The Wild were to have hosted St. Louis in St. Paul. The NHL team said in a statement: “Out of respect for the heartbreaking incident that happened last night in Brooklyn Center, tonight’s Minnesota Wild game has been postponed. The decision was made in the best interests of our fans, employees, players and community after discussions with local and state officials and the National Hockey League. Tonight’s game has been rescheduled for May 12. The Minnesota Wild organization extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Daunte Wright.”
-the Associated Press contributed to this story-
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