Minnesota National Guard

91 photos · 2020–2026

91 photographs tagged Minnesota National Guard, 2020–2026.

Minnesota National Guard and Police vehicles at Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, during Operation Metro Surge. — Minnesota National Guard and Minneapolis Police vehicles are positioned outside the Franklin Nicollet Liquor Store on January 25, 2026 as darkness falls following the killing of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents. On January 24, 2026, federal immigration agents fatally shot 37-year-old Alex Pretti during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis. Pretti, an intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, was killed during an encounter connected to large-scale federal immigration enforcement operations taking place across the Twin Cities. Video recorded by bystanders and witnesses at the scene quickly circulated online and contradicted portions of the initial federal account of the shooting, leading to public outrage and demands for the release of additional evidence. Video showed that Pretti was armed and was shot and killed an after he was disarmed. Pretti’s death sparked days of protests, marches, and confrontations with law enforcement in Minneapolis as demonstrators condemned the federal operation and called for accountability. The shooting became a major flashpoint in ongoing national debates over immigration enforcement, federal policing powers, and the use of force during domestic operations. As of this writing, no one has been held responsible for the killing.

Minnesota National Guard vehicles in a Minneapolis bike lane on January 24, 2026, following the shooting death of Alex Pretti. — Minnesota National Guard vehicles were positioned in a Minneapolis bike lane on January 24, 2026. The deployment followed the shooting death of Alex Pretti by ICE agents earlier that day. On January 24, 2026, federal immigration agents fatally shot 37-year-old Alex Pretti during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis. Pretti, an intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, was killed during an encounter connected to large-scale federal immigration enforcement operations taking place across the Twin Cities. Video recorded by bystanders and witnesses at the scene quickly circulated online and contradicted portions of the initial federal account of the shooting, leading to public outrage and demands for the release of additional evidence. Video showed that Pretti was armed and was shot and killed an after he was disarmed. Pretti’s death sparked days of protests, marches, and confrontations with law enforcement in Minneapolis as demonstrators condemned the federal operation and called for accountability. The shooting became a major flashpoint in ongoing national debates over immigration enforcement, federal policing powers, and the use of force during domestic operations. As of this writing, no one has been held responsible for the killing.

Minnesota National Guard members stand at a snowy Minneapolis street corner near a LOVE POWER mural — Members of the Minnesota National Guard were deployed in the Cedar Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis on January 17, 2026. Their presence was in response to a planned white nationalist march originating from downtown Minneapolis. The neighborhood, known for its diverse population, was on the planned route for a march. The mural in the background, depicting Jesus with outstretched arms and the words "LOVE POWER," is a prominent feature of the Cedar Riverside community.

Minnesota National Guard and State Patrol vehicles are parked near the Cedar Riverside neighborhood in Minneapolis. — Minnesota National Guard and State Patrol vehicles are present in Minneapolis near the Cedar Riverside neighborhood. The staging came as white supremacist Jake Lang had organized a planned protest in Downtown Minneapolis.

Minnesota National Guard near Cedar-Riverside in Minneapolis — The Minnesota National Guard and other state law enforcement out tonight in Minneapolis near Cedar Riverside. This follows thousands of federal agents and a downtown protest that was attended by maybe a dozen provocateurs but hundreds if not thousands of counter-protesters.

Minnesota National Guard troops at Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. — Members of the Minnesota National Guard were stationed outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on April 20, 2021. Their presence was in anticipation of the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin, a former Minneapolis police officer charged in the murder of George Floyd. The Hennepin County Government Center serves as a primary administrative and judicial hub for the county, and its security was heightened during this period of significant public attention and potential unrest.

Jesse Jackson arrives at Hennepin County Courthouse in Minneapolis as National Guard troops patrol. — Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader, arrived at the Hennepin County Courthouse in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during the trial of Derek Chauvin. Chauvin was charged in the death of George Floyd, which occurred on May 25, 2020, and sparked widespread protests. The courthouse, officially known as the Hennepin County Government Center, is a significant civic building in downtown Minneapolis. The presence of National Guard troops, as seen in the image, underscored the heightened security and tension surrounding the trial and its potential verdict.

National Guard troops outside Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct behind security fencing in Minneapolis. — National Guard soldiers are stationed outside the Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct, a location that became a focal point during the trial of Derek Chauvin. The precinct was heavily fortified with fencing and concrete barriers to prevent damage and maintain order amidst protests following the murder of George Floyd. This security measure was part of "Operation Safety Net," a coordinated effort by law enforcement and the National Guard to manage public safety during the high-profile trial.

Minnesota National Guard Humvees outside Allianz Field in St. Paul. — Minnesota National Guard Humvees and personnel are stationed outside Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota. This deployment occurred during "Operation Safety Net," a security measure implemented in response to the Derek Chauvin murder trial in April 2021. The presence of military vehicles and personnel underscored the heightened security concerns and potential for civil unrest in the Twin Cities following the trial and the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Allianz Field, a soccer stadium, was repurposed as a security perimeter during this period.

National Guard outside St. Paul Police Western District station in St. Paul behind fencing and a command tent. — National Guard troops are stationed outside the St. Paul Police Western District station, a facility that serves as a key law enforcement hub for the western part of the city. The presence of military personnel and fortified security measures, including fencing and what appears to be a temporary command tent, indicates a response to significant civil unrest. This deployment occurred in the context of the Daunte Wright protests in April 2021, which led to heightened security across the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The station's architecture is functional, designed to withstand potential threats and maintain operational capacity during emergencies.

National Guard and police at Minneapolis Fifth Precinct behind fencing and razor wire. — National Guard soldiers and Minneapolis Police officers secure the perimeter of the Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct in South Minneapolis. The precinct was fortified with concrete barriers and razor wire in response to widespread protests and civil unrest that followed the killing of George Floyd in May 2020 and the subsequent trial of Officer Derek Chauvin. The presence of the National Guard was a visible symbol of the state's response to maintain order during a period of intense public scrutiny and activism.

National Guard Humvee on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis near Hennepin Theatre Trust. — A Minnesota National Guard Humvee is parked on Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis. The presence of military vehicles on the downtown street reflects the heightened security and civil unrest that occurred in the city following the murder trial of Derek Chauvin for the death of George Floyd. Nicollet Mall, a pedestrian-oriented street, is a central commercial and cultural hub in Minneapolis, and its use by military vehicles underscores the extraordinary circumstances of the period.

National Guard soldiers and a police officer beside a military vehicle in downtown Minneapolis. — National Guard and Minneapolis Police officers stand on duty near a military vehicle during the trial of Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis. The trial, which concluded in April 2021, stemmed from the May 25th, 2020, killing of George Floyd. The presence of law enforcement and military personnel underscored the heightened tensions in the city following Floyd's death and in anticipation of the trial's verdict.

Minnesota National Guard soldiers beside a Humvee on Washington Avenue in Minneapolis during the Chauvin trial. — Minnesota National Guard soldiers and a Humvee are stationed on Washington Avenue in Minneapolis's North Loop neighborhood during the trial of Derek Chauvin in April 2021. The presence of military personnel was part of "Operation Safety Net," a joint effort by state and local law enforcement and the National Guard to maintain order and protect property during the highly publicized trial. The trial followed the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer in May 2020, which sparked widespread protests and unrest in the city and across the nation.

Protester behind a fence in Minneapolis holds sign demanding murder charges against Kim Potter. — A protester holds a sign demanding murder charges against former Brooklyn Center police officer Kim Potter, following the death of Daunte Wright. The protest took place outside the Hennepin County Government Center, a courthouse in Minneapolis. Wright was killed during a traffic stop in Brooklyn Center on April 11, 2021, and Potter was later convicted of second-degree manslaughter. The sign also includes the hashtag #DaunteWright, connecting the protest to the broader movement for racial justice and police accountability.

Anoka County sheriff's deputy in riot gear at the Daunte Wright protest in Brooklyn Center. — An Anoka County Sheriff's deputy stands guard outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department on April 14, 2021. Protests had been ongoing for four consecutive days following the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, by a Brooklyn Center police officer on April 11, 2021. The incident sparked widespread demonstrations and unrest in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

Justice 4 Daunte Wright Projection on National Guard vehicle — Brooklyn Center, Minn. — Protesters gather for the 5th straight day at the Brooklyn Center Police Department after 20-year old Daunte Wright was shot and killed by a Brooklyn Center Police on April 11th, 2020.

Protesters with umbrellas outside Brooklyn Center Police Department at night. — Protesters gathered outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department on April 14, 2021, the fifth consecutive day of demonstrations. The protests were sparked by the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, by a Brooklyn Center police officer on April 11, 2021. The events led to widespread unrest in the Minneapolis area, with the National Guard being deployed to maintain order. The Brooklyn Center Police Department is a municipal law enforcement agency serving the city of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.

Candle held aloft at a vigil outside Brooklyn Center Police Department after Daunte Wright's killing. — A candlelight vigil was held for Daunte Wright outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department on April 14, 2021, the fifth consecutive day of protests following his death. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was shot and killed by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter on April 11, 2021, during a traffic stop. The incident sparked widespread protests and calls for police reform in Brooklyn Center, a suburb of Minneapolis.

Air fresheners on fencing at Brooklyn Center Police Department during Daunte Wright protests. — Air fresheners hang from the fencing surrounding the Brooklyn Center Police Department, a site of protests following the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright on April 11, 2021. The protests, which lasted for several days, were a response to the killing of the 20-year-old by a police officer during a traffic stop. Reports indicated Wright was pulled over for an air freshener hanging from his rearview mirror, a detail that became a poignant symbol of the unrest.

Fencing and concrete barriers around Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. — On April 15, 2021, the Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, was secured with fencing and concrete barriers. This action followed days of protests that began after the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright by a police officer on April 11, 2021. The presence of the National Guard indicated a significant escalation in the response to the ongoing unrest.

National Guard troops on N Broadway in Minneapolis after the killing of Daunte Wright. — National Guard troops are stationed on N. Broadway in Minneapolis following the killing of Daunte Wright by Brooklyn Center Police Officer Kim Potter on April 11, 2021. The deployment of military personnel was in response to widespread protests and civil unrest that occurred in the days following the incident. This event marked a period of heightened tension and public outcry over police brutality and racial injustice in the Minneapolis area.

Police officers behind fencing during Daunte Wright protests — Brooklyn Center, Minn. — Protesters gather for the 5th straight day at the Brooklyn Center Police Department after 20-year old Daunte Wright was shot and killed by a Brooklyn Center Police on April 11th, 2020.

Police officers guard the Brooklyn Center Police Station, Daunte Wright Protest — Protesters gather for the 5th straight day at the Brooklyn Center Police Department after 20-year old Daunte Wright was shot and killed by a Brooklyn Center Police on April 11th, 2020.

Daunte Wright memorial at Kathrene Drive and 63rd Avenue North in Brooklyn Center, lit with candles and flowers. — A memorial for Daunte Wright is illuminated by candles at the intersection of Kathrene Drive and 63rd Avenue North in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was fatally shot by a police officer during a traffic stop in this location on April 11, 2021. The memorial includes flowers, candles, and a wooden sculpture of a raised fist, which was originally part of the George Floyd Square memorial. The incident sparked protests and unrest in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area.

Candles at the Daunte Wright memorial in Brooklyn Center on the anniversary of his death. — Candles illuminate the Daunte Wright Memorial in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, on April 14, 2021, the one-year anniversary of his death. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was killed during a traffic stop by a police officer in Brooklyn Center. The incident sparked protests and unrest in the Minneapolis area. This memorial, marked by numerous candles and flowers, serves as a place of remembrance and a focal point for ongoing discussions about racial justice and police accountability.

Protesters and a BEAR tactical vehicle at Brooklyn Center Police Department, Brooklyn Center. — Law enforcement vehicles, including a "BEAR" tactical unit, and officers from multiple agencies surround the Brooklyn Center Police Department building. The presence of the National Guard, Hennepin County Sheriffs, and Minnesota State Patrol indicates a significant public gathering. This response occurred in the aftermath of the killing of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, who was shot by a Brooklyn Center police officer during a traffic stop on April 11, 2021. The incident sparked widespread protests and calls for justice, with demonstrators holding signs such as "Black Lives Matter."

Brooklyn Center – April 14, 2021 – Daunte Wright Protests — Brooklyn Center, Minn. — Brooklyn Center Police, Hennepin County Sheriffs, Minnesota State Patrol and the National Guard surround the police station as the community gathers to protest the death of 20-year old Daunte Wright. Wright was shot and killed by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11th.

Daunte Wright Protesters with umbrellas outside police station — Brooklyn Center, Minn. — Brooklyn Center Police, Hennepin County Sheriffs, Minnesota State Patrol and the National Guard surround the police station as the community gathers to protest the death of 20-year old Daunte Wright. Wright was shot and killed by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11th.

Sheriff's deputies face protesters at a fence outside Brooklyn Center Police Department. — Law enforcement officers from the Brooklyn Center Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff's Office, Minnesota State Patrol, and the National Guard established a perimeter around the Brooklyn Center Police Department. This action followed the death of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old man who was fatally shot by a Brooklyn Center police officer during a traffic stop on April 11th. The presence of multiple law enforcement agencies and the National Guard indicated a significant response to the ensuing community protests.

Sheriff's deputy in riot gear atop an armored vehicle at Brooklyn Center Police Department, Minnesota. — A sheriff's deputy in riot gear stands atop a department vehicle outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department. This image was taken during protests that erupted following the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright by a police officer in the Minneapolis suburb on April 11, 2021. The protests led to unrest and clashes with law enforcement in the days that followed. The Brooklyn Center Police Department serves a community of approximately 30,000 residents and is responsible for maintaining public safety and order.

National Guard soldier outside Juut Salon in Uptown Minneapolis at night. — Minnesota National Guard soldiers are stationed outside Juut Salon and AVEDA Institute in Uptown Minneapolis on April 13, 2021. Their presence followed the shooting death of Daunte Wright by a Brooklyn Center police officer, which ignited protests and civil unrest in the Minneapolis area. The National Guard was deployed to maintain order and protect property during this period of heightened tension.

Police line behind the Sterling Square Apartments sign in Brooklyn Center amid Daunte Wright protests. — Protesters gather near Sterling Square Apartments in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, following the death of Daunte Wright. The 20-year-old was fatally shot by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11, 2021. The incident sparked widespread protests, with law enforcement agencies including the Brooklyn Center Police, Hennepin County Sheriffs, Minnesota State Patrol, and the National Guard present. The image captures the tense atmosphere with police in riot gear and the aftermath of gatherings, including debris and graffiti on the apartment complex sign.

Protesters shelter behind umbrellas as tear gas fills the street in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. — Protesters gather outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, to protest the death of Daunte Wright. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was shot and killed by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11, 2021. The incident sparked widespread protests, and law enforcement, including the Minnesota State Patrol and the National Guard, responded with tear gas and other crowd control measures.

Large crowd gathered outside Brooklyn Center Police Department during protest following Daunte Wright's death. — Daunte Wright, 20, died on April 11, 2021, after being shot by Brooklyn Center police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on 63rd Avenue North. Potter, a 26-year veteran of the department, later said she mistook her handgun for a Taser; she resigned two days after the shooting and was later convicted of manslaughter. Crowds gathered outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department building on Humboldt Avenue in the days following Wright's death, prompting the deployment of Minnesota National Guard troops and State Patrol officers to the site. The department, which serves a city of about 30,000 residents in Hennepin County, faced weeks of nightly demonstrations calling for police accountability. Wright's death came less than 10 miles from the courthouse where former officer Derek Chauvin was on trial at the time for the killing of George Floyd.

Protesters kneel with hands raised outside Brooklyn Center Police Department after Daunte Wright's killing. — Protesters gather outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department following the death of Daunte Wright. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was fatally shot by officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11, 2021. The incident sparked widespread protests and calls for police reform in Brooklyn Center, a suburb of Minneapolis.

Protesters outside Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, as officers stand on the roof. — Protestors gathered outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, on April 11, 2021. The demonstration was in response to the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, by Brooklyn Park Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop earlier that day. The presence of law enforcement, including the National Guard, highlighted the tense atmosphere. The protest underscored ongoing community concerns regarding police conduct and racial justice.

Protesters outside Brooklyn Center Police Department with a "No Justice No Streets" sign in Minnesota. — Protesters gathered outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, following the death of Daunte Wright. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was fatally shot by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11, 2021. The incident sparked widespread protests and unrest in the Minneapolis metropolitan area. The sign "No Justice No Streets" reflects the protesters' demands for accountability and systemic change within law enforcement.

Protesters outside the FBI Minneapolis Field Office with a Justice for Daunte Wright banner. — Protesters gathered outside the FBI Minneapolis Field Office on April 12, 2021, to protest the death of Daunte Wright. Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was fatally shot by Brooklyn Center Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop the previous day. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area. The FBI Minneapolis Field Office is a federal law enforcement facility responsible for a range of investigative and security operations within the region.

National Guard troops outside Brooklyn Center Police Station in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. — National Guard troops and law enforcement officers are stationed outside the Brooklyn Center Police Station in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. This deployment occurred in April 2021 following the death of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, who was shot and killed by Brooklyn Park Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop. The incident sparked widespread protests and unrest in the community, leading to the mobilization of the National Guard to assist local law enforcement.

Police officers in riot gear beside a National Guard vehicle in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. — Law enforcement officers, including the National Guard, are present outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. This response occurred following the death of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old man shot by a Brooklyn Park police officer during a traffic stop on April 11th. The incident sparked protests and unrest in the community.

Minnesota National Guard troops beside a military truck at Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklyn Center. — Members of the Minnesota National Guard are pictured outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department. The deployment occurred in April 2021 following protests and unrest after the fatal shooting of Daunte Wright by a police officer in the city. The National Guard was activated to support local law enforcement and maintain order during the period of civil disturbance. This event highlighted the complex relationship between law enforcement, community, and military presence during times of heightened tension.

Brooklyn Center Police Department sign vandalized during protest — The sign for the City of Brooklyn Center Police Department is defaced with graffiti during a protest. The protest was held in response to the death of Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old man who was shot and killed by Brooklyn Park Police officer Kim Potter during a traffic stop on April 11th.

National Guard vehicles on Earle Brown Drive in Brooklyn Center at night. — National Guard vehicles are staged on Earle Brown Drive in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, during a period of unrest following the death of Daunte Wright. The presence of military vehicles underscores the significant response to protests that occurred in the Minneapolis area. Brooklyn Center, a suburb of Minneapolis, became a focal point for demonstrations and police activity in April 2021.

National Guard vehicle on Lake Street in Minneapolis beside boarded storefronts. — A Minnesota National Guard vehicle is parked on Lake Street in Minneapolis following the killing of Daunte Wright by police in nearby Brooklyn Center. The presence of military vehicles on city streets was a response to unrest and protests that occurred in the days following Wright's death, which echoed the larger demonstrations that took place in the city after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Businesses along Lake Street had boarded up their windows and storefronts in anticipation of potential damage, a common sight during periods of civil unrest in the city.

Minnesota National Guard and police near Brooklyn Center Police Headquarters during protests after Daunte Wright's killing. — Members of the Minnesota National Guard arrived near the Brooklyn Center Police Headquarters on April 12, 2021. Their deployment followed protests that erupted after the killing of Daunte Wright by a police officer during a traffic stop. The presence of the National Guard was intended to support local law enforcement and restore order amidst the unrest.

National Guard patrol behind security fencing at Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. — National Guard members patrolled the perimeter of the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis during the 2021 murder trial of Derek Chauvin. The trial, which followed the death of George Floyd, drew significant public attention and necessitated heightened security measures. Temporary fencing was erected around the government center to control access and ensure the safety of the building and its occupants. The presence of the National Guard underscored the tense atmosphere and the potential for civil unrest during this period.

Minnesota National Guard personnel near Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis during the Derek Chauvin trial. — Hennepin County Government Center, Minneapolis, during the Derek Chauvin trial. Minnesota National Guard personnel were stationed near the courthouse complex as security during the proceedings.

National Guard vehicle behind fencing at Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. — A National Guard vehicle is visible behind fencing and barricades outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. This security measure was in place during the trial of Derek Chauvin, who was accused of the murder of George Floyd.

Armed security on courthouse balcony during Chauvin trial — Members of the National Guard are stationed outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. The building, located at 300 South 6th Street, serves as a central hub for county government operations. Its security was heightened during the trial of Derek Chauvin, a former Minneapolis police officer charged in the death of George Floyd. The presence of the National Guard underscored the significant public attention and potential for unrest surrounding the trial.

National Guard security at Derek Chauvin murder trial — National Guard vehicles and a Hennepin County Sheriff's vehicle were stationed near the Hennepin County Courthouse in Minneapolis during the trial of Derek Chauvin. The trial, held in April 2021, stemmed from the death of George Floyd in May 2020, an event that sparked widespread protests and unrest. The presence of military and law enforcement vehicles underscored the heightened security measures and the tense atmosphere surrounding the proceedings.

National Guard military vehicle outside Chauvin trial — A Minnesota National Guard vehicle is parked near the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. The courthouse was the site of the trial for Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged in the May 25, 2020, murder of George Floyd. The presence of military vehicles underscored the heightened security and tension surrounding the trial, which began in March 2021.

Minnesota National Guard outside Hennepin Courthouse — A member of the Minnesota National Guard stands in front of a military vehicle outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. This deployment occurred during a period of heightened tension and unrest in the city, following the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent trial of Derek Chauvin. The National Guard was activated to support local law enforcement and maintain order amidst widespread protests against police brutality. The Hennepin County Government Center, a prominent civic building in downtown Minneapolis, served as a focal point during these events.

National Guard in front of courthouse Derek Chauvin Trial — National Guard members stand security outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on March 7, 2021. This deployment occurred during the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged in the murder of George Floyd. The presence of the National Guard was a response to concerns about potential unrest and protests related to the high-profile trial. The Hennepin County Government Center serves as a central hub for county administration and judicial proceedings.

Armed National Guard outside the Derek Chauvin murder trial — National Guard soldiers stand outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on March 7, 2021. Their presence was in response to the ongoing trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged in the murder of George Floyd. The trial, which began in March 2021, drew significant public attention and protests, leading to heightened security measures in the city.

Military vehicles arrive for Derek Chauvin murder trial — Members of the Minnesota National Guard were deployed to secure the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis during the trial of Derek Chauvin in April 2021. The trial followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, which sparked widespread protests and unrest in the city. The government center, a prominent civic building in downtown Minneapolis, was fortified with fencing and security personnel to prevent potential disturbances during the highly publicized legal proceedings. The presence of military forces underscored the heightened tensions and the perceived need for enhanced security measures in the city.

Heavy security outside Derek Chauvin trial — Minnesota National Guard members stand behind fencing at the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. This security presence was established during the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged in the murder of George Floyd. The trial, which began in March 2021, drew significant public attention and heightened security measures around the courthouse. The presence of the National Guard underscored the tense atmosphere and concerns about potential unrest following the widely publicized events of George Floyd's death.

National Guard Armory in Minnesota — Minnesota National Guard vehicles are staged at The Armory in Minneapolis in anticipation of potential civil unrest. This deployment occurred in May 2021, following the conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd. The Armory, a historic building completed in 1936, has served as a military facility and a public venue. Its large drill hall and surrounding grounds have historically been used for military training and public gatherings, making it a strategic location for staging resources during times of heightened public tension.

National Guard Vehicle at Minnesota State Capitol — A Minnesota National Guard Humvee is parked near the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul during a period of civil unrest. The presence of military vehicles at the state capitol complex often indicates heightened security measures in response to protests or other public safety concerns. The Minnesota State Capitol building, completed in 1905, serves as the seat of government for the state of Minnesota and is a significant historical landmark.

National Guard at a Stop The Steal protest in St Paul — Minnesota National Guard and State Patrol officers maintain a perimeter around the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul. The presence of military and law enforcement vehicles and personnel suggests a response to a significant public event or protest. The Minnesota State Capitol, completed in 1905, is a Beaux-Arts style building that houses the state's legislative and judicial branches.

Major General Shawn Manke at State Capitol — Minnesota National Guard members stand near a Humvee at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. The heightened security was in response to threats of violence at state capitols nationwide following the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. A small pro-Trump rally was also taking place at the Minnesota State Capitol that day. The presence of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the National Guard, underscored the tense atmosphere and concerns for public safety.

Stop The Steal Rally at the MN State Capitol — Security forces, including the National Guard, State Patrol, and local law enforcement, were present at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul during a pro-Trump rally. The event, which drew approximately 20 attendees, occurred amidst heightened security concerns following reports of potential violence at state capitols nationwide. The presence of multiple law enforcement agencies underscored the tense political climate of the time, particularly in the context of the "Stop the Steal" movement and its aftermath.

Cathedral of Saint Paul and the National Guard — The Cathedral of Saint Paul, a prominent landmark in St. Paul, Minnesota, stands under heavy security during a pro-Trump rally. The presence of a National Guard vehicle and multiple law enforcement agencies underscores the heightened security measures implemented across state capitols following reports of potential violence. The cathedral, completed in 1912, is a significant example of Beaux-Arts architecture and serves as the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The rally, which drew approximately 20 attendees, occurred amidst a period of national unrest and political tension.

National Gaurd on Marquette after False Rumors riot — Minnesota National Guard members stand on Marquette Avenue in Downtown Minneapolis following the False Rumors riot. This deployment occurred in response to civil unrest, part of the broader Minneapolis Uprising, which saw protests and disturbances across the city. The presence of the National Guard aimed to maintain order and secure areas in the urban environment. Marquette Avenue is a major thoroughfare in the city's central business district, characterized by its mix of historic and modern architecture, including the stone building visible in the background.

Minnesota National Guard vehicles outside Daytons in Minneapolis — A Minnesota National Guard vehicle is positioned on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis in August 2020. This deployment occurred in response to civil unrest that followed false rumors of a police shooting, which led to property damage in the city center. The vehicle is seen near the historic Dayton's Project building, a significant architectural and commercial landmark.

National Guard vehicles on Nicollet Mall in August 2020 — A Minnesota National Guard M-ATV and a Hennepin County Sheriff's Department vehicle are positioned on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis on August 29, 2020. Their presence followed civil unrest that erupted after false rumors of a police shooting circulated days earlier. Nicollet Mall, a prominent pedestrian and transit mall, serves as a central artery in the city's commercial district. The vehicles are stationed near a Target store, a major retailer with a significant presence in the area, reflecting the heightened security measures in the urban environment during this period.

Minnesota National Guard outside a boarded CVS on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis, June 2020. — Members of the Minnesota National Guard stand outside a boarded CVS Pharmacy on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis on June 4, 2020. The deployment came during the period of unrest and protests in Minneapolis following the murder of George Floyd. Plywood covers the storefront windows and doors, reflecting the precautionary measures taken by businesses along the corridor during that time.

Minnesota National Guard armored vehicle in downtown Minneapolis on June 4, 2020 after George Floyd protests. — A Minnesota National Guard armored vehicle drives through downtown Minneapolis on June 4, 2020. The deployment followed the killing of George Floyd on May 25 and the protests and unrest that spread across the city in the days after his death. National Guard units were activated to support local authorities during the emergency response, bringing military vehicles onto central city streets.

Minnesota National Guard outside the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis on June 4, 2020. — Minnesota National Guard troops and military vehicles stand outside the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, Ninth District, in Minneapolis on June 4, 2020. The deployment took place during the period of unrest and protests that followed the killing of George Floyd on May 25. The Federal Reserve Bank building, visible behind the troops, is the regional headquarters for the Ninth Federal Reserve District.

Barricades and police at the Minneapolis Police 1st Precinct in downtown Minneapolis on June 4, 2020. — The Minneapolis Police 1st Precinct in downtown Minneapolis is shown behind concrete barriers, fencing, concertina wire, and a road closure checkpoint on June 4, 2020. Minneapolis police officers and a Minnesota National Guard soldier stand at the secured perimeter during the citywide protests following the killing of George Floyd. The image shows the extensive fortification of the precinct and street access controls that were in place in the weeks after unrest spread through Minneapolis.

National Guard troops and military vehicles at the Minneapolis Convention Center on June 2, 2020. — National Guard personnel stand outside the marshalling yard at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis on June 2, 2020. The convention center was being used as a temporary National Guard base during the citywide protests that followed the murder of George Floyd. A line of military vehicles is parked inside the fenced service area behind the guards, while the convention center’s patterned exterior wall fills the left side of the frame.

National Guard soldiers and Humvees outside the Minneapolis Convention Center on June 2, 2020. — National Guard soldiers and Humvees stand outside the Minneapolis Convention Center in downtown Minneapolis on June 2, 2020. The convention center was being used as a temporary base during the protests and unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd. The image shows armed troops and military vehicles positioned on the facility grounds during the state response in Minneapolis.

Minnesota National Guard outside Cedar Food & Grill on Cedar Avenue in South Minneapolis on June 1, 2020. — Minnesota National Guard troops stand outside Cedar Food & Grill on Cedar Avenue in South Minneapolis on June 1, 2020. The grocery, produce, and deli storefront is boarded up, with handwritten signs on the plywood noting that it is minority owned. Their deployment came in the days after the May 25 killing of George Floyd, when National Guard units were stationed around Minneapolis commercial corridors and neighborhood businesses during the unrest.

Minnesota National Guard member on the Hennepin County Forensic Science Laboratory roof in downtown Minneapolis. — A Minnesota National Guard member stands watch on the roof of the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Forensic Science Laboratory in downtown Minneapolis. The photograph was made on June 1, 2020, during the period of protests and heightened security that followed the killing of George Floyd. The laboratory is a Hennepin County law enforcement facility used for forensic analysis, and National Guard troops were deployed around Minneapolis as a nighttime curfew took effect.

National Guard and concrete barricades outside Minneapolis Police 1st Precinct in downtown Minneapolis, June 2020. — National Guard troops and layered concrete and metal barricades block a street outside the Minneapolis Police 1st Precinct in downtown Minneapolis on June 1, 2020. The image shows a heavily restricted perimeter with military vehicles, fencing, and traffic-control barriers positioned around the station. These security measures were put in place during the unrest and protests that followed the killing of George Floyd on May 25, 2020.

Minnesota National Guard troops outside City Center in downtown Minneapolis during George Floyd protest unrest. — Minnesota National Guard troops stand outside City Center in downtown Minneapolis on June 1, 2020, during protests following the May 25, 2020 murder of George Floyd. The image shows three armed service members at the entrance to the mixed-use retail and office complex as the city remained under curfew orders that week.

Minnesota National Guard Humvee on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis during unrest in June 2020. — A Minnesota National Guard Humvee is parked on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis, beneath the city’s skyway system near 7th Street South. The photograph was taken on June 1, 2020, during the period of unrest that followed the May 25 killing of George Floyd. Storefronts along the pedestrian corridor are covered with plywood, and the otherwise empty street shows the security presence in the central business district.

National Guard helicopter with a Bambi bucket over South Minneapolis. — A Minnesota National Guard helicopter carrying a Bambi bucket flies over South Minneapolis on May 31, 2020. The aircraft was deployed for aerial fire suppression during the unrest that followed the killing of George Floyd, when fires burned at multiple locations across the city. Photographed from below through tree leaves, the image shows the helicopter in transit with the suspended water bucket visible beneath the fuselage.

National Guard troops on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis during George Floyd protests. — Minnesota National Guard soldiers stand at an intersection on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis on May 30, 2020, during overnight protests following the death of George Floyd. The troops are positioned outside commercial buildings with plywood covering the windows and doors, reflecting security measures taken as unrest spread through the city. Nicollet Mall is a major downtown pedestrian and transit corridor, and the Guard deployment marked the city and state's emergency response during the fourth day of unrest.

Minnesota National Guard vehicle near Midtown Exchange in Minneapolis as firefighters work amid smoke. — A Minnesota National Guard vehicle stands on a street near the Midtown Exchange in south Minneapolis as Minneapolis firefighters work amid smoke at daybreak on May 30, 2020. The photograph was made during the unrest that followed the killing of George Floyd, when fires and heavy emergency response affected commercial corridors across the city. The Midtown Exchange, a large mixed-use redevelopment of the historic Sears, Roebuck and Company building, is visible in the area behind the response.

Smoke over Midtown Exchange on East Lake Street in Minneapolis as National Guard vehicles patrol at sunrise. — Smoke rises around the Midtown Exchange in south Minneapolis as sunrise lights East Lake Street on May 30, 2020. Minnesota National Guard troops and Minneapolis Fire Department personnel are visible near the Lake Street commercial corridor after overnight fires and unrest following protests over the killing of George Floyd. The Midtown Exchange, originally built in 1928 as a Sears, Roebuck and Company mail-order and retail complex, had been redeveloped as a mixed-use building before the disturbances.

National Guard vehicles and a fire truck in Midtown Minneapolis with Midtown Exchange behind smoke at sunrise. — Minnesota National Guard troops and Minneapolis Fire Department vehicles are positioned in Midtown Minneapolis on May 30, 2020, with the Midtown Exchange building rising through smoke at sunrise in the background. The large brick structure, topped by the “MIDTOWN EXCHANGE” sign, was originally built as a Sears, Roebuck and Company mail-order and retail complex. The deployment came after overnight unrest following the killing of George Floyd, as firefighters responded to active fires and the National Guard supported local authorities.

National Guard troops on Lake Street in Minneapolis beside graffiti-marked storefronts and debris. — Members of the Minnesota National Guard patrol Lake Street in Minneapolis on May 30, 2020, passing boarded and graffiti-marked storefronts amid debris left on the street. The deployment came after several nights of fires and property damage during protests following the death of George Floyd. Lake Street, a major commercial corridor in south Minneapolis, was among the areas most heavily affected, and National Guard units were sent to support security operations and protect businesses and residents.

National Guard truck at Chicago Avenue and Lake Street in Minneapolis amid debris and haze. — Minnesota National Guard soldiers and a Minneapolis Police vehicle are stationed at Chicago Avenue South and Lake Street in Minneapolis on May 30, 2020. A military transport truck is parked beside the Los Ocampo commercial building, with debris and haze visible along the corridor. The deployment came during the unrest and protests that followed the murder of George Floyd, when National Guard troops and local law enforcement were sent to major intersections and business districts across south Minneapolis.

Firefighters battle a blaze on East Lake Street at Columbus Avenue in Minneapolis as a National Guard soldier stands nearby. — Firefighters battle a blaze on East Lake Street at Columbus Avenue in South Minneapolis as a Minnesota National Guard soldier and Minneapolis police vehicles stand nearby. The image shows heavy smoke, water streams, and collapsed brick debris from a badly damaged commercial building. Photographed on May 30, 2020, the fire occurred during the unrest following the killing of George Floyd, when parts of the Lake Street corridor sustained extensive damage.

Minnesota National Guard vehicles on Lake Street in Minneapolis as smoke rises near LynLake at dawn. — Minnesota National Guard vehicles and personnel are stationed on Lake Street in Minneapolis near the LynLake district on May 30, 2020. Smoke rises in the distance at dawn as military and emergency vehicles line the commercial corridor after several nights of unrest following the killing of George Floyd. Lake Street is a major east-west route through South Minneapolis, lined with businesses, housing, and neighborhood landmarks.

National Guard vehicles block Lake Street in Minneapolis before sunrise as smoke rises in the distance. — Minnesota National Guard troops and military vehicles block Lake Street in the LynLake area of Uptown Minneapolis before sunrise on May 30, 2020. The deployment came during protests and unrest following the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police, with smoke from fires visible in the distance along the commercial corridor. Lake Street, a major east-west route lined with apartments, shops, and businesses, was heavily affected during the unrest and remained under a strong security presence as day broke.

National Guard truck outside boarded Bryant-Lake Bowl in Uptown Minneapolis — A Minnesota National Guard vehicle and soldier stand outside the boarded Bryant-Lake Bowl in Uptown Minneapolis on May 30, 2020. The business, a long-running bowling alley, theater, and restaurant, had covered its street-facing windows with plywood as unrest followed the killing of George Floyd. The photograph shows the LynLake commercial district under military presence in the early morning hours.

Minnesota National Guard vehicles block Lake Street at Speedway in Minneapolis as smoke rises behind them. — Minnesota National Guard troops and military vehicles block Lake Street near the Speedway station in the LynLake area of South Minneapolis on May 30, 2020. Thick smoke rises behind the intersection as firefighters and emergency vehicles respond during unrest that followed the killing of George Floyd. The deployment was part of the state response to secure major commercial corridors and assist local law enforcement and fire operations overnight.

National Guard troops and a fire truck at the Lyn-Lake Speedway on Lake Street in Minneapolis. — National Guard troops and a Minneapolis Fire Department truck are positioned on Lake Street at the Lyn-Lake Speedway station in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in the early morning of May 30, 2020. The deployment followed overnight fires and unrest in the city after the killing of George Floyd. National Guard units were sent to secure streets and support emergency access as fire crews responded to active blazes and damaged properties along the corridor.

Minnesota National Guard Humvee on Lake Street in Minneapolis during protests after George Floyd's death. — A Minnesota National Guard Humvee and a soldier with a riot shield stand on Lake Street in Minneapolis on May 30, 2020, during protests following the death of George Floyd. The Guard was deployed in the city as officials responded to unrest, fires, and damage in commercial corridors including Lake Street. Storefronts, emergency lights, and the largely empty street place the photograph in the overnight security presence that followed several days of demonstrations.

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