Minneapolis police officers fled a precinct in the city after it was stormed by protesters and fires were lighted inside the building.

Images and footage from the scene show fires burning inside the 3rd Precinct building, after demonstrators forced their way in last night. The station was evacuated “in the interest of the safety of our personnel,” authorities said in a statement.


Protesters stand in front of the 3rd precinct police building as it burns during a protest on May 28, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

The statement added: “Protesters forcibly entered the building and have ignited several fires.”

Protesters had earlier surrounded the building, while police used tear gas and rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse demonstrators.

Warnings have been issued over safety in the surrounding area following the break in at the 3rd Precinct.

A tweet from the City of Minneapolis said: “We’re hearing unconfirmed reports that gas lines to the Third Precinct have been cut and other explosive materials are in the building. If you are near the building, for your safety, PLEASE RETREAT in the event the building explodes.”

While a post from Minneapolis NAACP also said the area was not safe.

An update on Twitter said: “The 3rd Precinct Police Dept. has been broken into and is currently on fire. The area is no longer safe!

“If you around the that area, GET OUT immediately!!!”

Protests are continuing in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd, who died after officers attempted to arrest him on suspicion of forgery.

Video of Floyd being detained was shared on social media, in which an officer can be seen with his knee on his neck. Floyd is heard saying “I can’t breathe.” An ambulance was called for him and he was pronounced dead at a medical facility.

Newsweek has contacted Minneapolis Police Department for comment.

This page is being updated.