A man suspected in a tragic shooting event in a downtown Minneapolis apartment complex faced eviction due to several incidents, as revealed by court documents. The suspect allegedly killed two people and wounded six others in the shooting.
Authorities identified the suspect as 35-year-old Carlton Neal Johnson. Although interim Minneapolis Police Chief Bill Peterson noted that the police knew of the alleged shooter, he did not confirm Johnson’s identity. Sources indicated that Johnson died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as reported by WCCO.
History of Incidents Leading to Eviction
Johnson rented an apartment at the Shoreline Plaza complex, previously Loring Towers, located at 15 East Grant Street, beginning in March 2025. His lease faced termination on June 29, following a notification from the property’s legal representatives on June 16.
The notification listed six separate incidents, starting in January. Notably, an event in March involved Johnson allegedly assaulting a fellow resident on the premises. On June 11, Johnson reportedly entered the building’s management office and displayed a firearm openly to staff.
During this period, Johnson reportedly informed several residents that he had acquired a new gun. Two days following these disclosures, he allegedly flashed his weapon on a nearby sidewalk.
Eviction Proceedings and Further Actions
Court documents indicate that Johnson approached apartment management seeking another chance. The legal firm’s correspondence warned him against displaying firearms on premises and urged adherence to Minnesota’s conceal and carry laws.
The final eviction complaint cited his continued lease breach. On June 19, Johnson allegedly made alarming statements about gun use to a security officer, lifting his shirt to expose his firearm. On June 25, he reportedly promenaded around the block showing his firearm and brandished it at another resident in a communal area.
Law enforcement received a report after Johnson allegedly tried to bribe staff to find out who called police. Sources confirmed his apartment eviction earlier on Wednesday. Additionally, court files revealed Johnson had a scheduled trial and hearing on September 11.
Impact on Law Enforcement and Community
First responders managed a shooting incident at the apartment complex on September 2, 2026, in the heart of Minneapolis. Authorities have yet to verify the names of the two deceased individuals. Among the six wounded individuals, three were police officers.
One officer underwent surgery due to severe abdominal wounds inflicted by gunfire. Another officer sustained a leg injury, while the third officer was evaluated for an injury considered non-life-threatening. City officials added that four officers suffered effects from exposure to an unidentified airborne substance.
Chief Peterson remarked on the bravery of officers who advance amid danger when others retreat, labeling the situation as horrific. When questioned about prior involvement with the shooter or why police had not detained him, Peterson stated that he lacked specific details.