Community Mourns Young Mother Killed In Boom Island Park Shooting

Community Mourns Young Mother Killed In Boom Island Park Shooting

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Family and friends gathered on Tuesday evening to honor the memory of 23-year-old Stageina Whiting, who was tragically killed in a mass shooting at Boom Island Park on Sunday night.

Stageina Whiting

Whiting, a Brooklyn Center resident and mother to an 8-month-old daughter, was remembered as a caring and hardworking young woman. According to an online fundraiser, she balanced school and overnight work shifts to provide for her child.

"She didn't have problems with anybody out here," said her father, Darnell Robinson. "She's a caring mother, worked, went to school, just stayed out of trouble."

The shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. on June 1 during a large gathering at Boom Island Park. Police arrived to a chaotic scene with over 100 people present. Six individuals were shot, including Whiting, who succumbed to her injuries at Hennepin Healthcare. One man sustained life-threatening injuries, while the others had non-life-threatening wounds.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara described the scene as resembling a "war zone," noting the large number of shell casings found. Investigators believe multiple shooters were involved, but no arrests have been made, and the motive remains unclear.

In response to the incident, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board announced increased security measures at Boom Island Park, including the installation of a mobile camera and additional patrols from 8 p.m. to midnight through June 22.

A vigil was held at the park to honor Whiting's life, with attendees sharing memories and calling for an end to senseless violence. Her family has set up a fundraiser to assist with funeral expenses and support her daughter.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Minneapolis Police Department.

MinneapoliMedia