by A 34-year-old suspected gang member has been charged with multiple counts of murder following a deadly mass shooting in south Minneapolis.
Authorities allege James Duane Ortley fatally shot four people inside a car, including a teenager, and fled the scene. He was arrested by U.S. Marshals later in the week.
What Happened
A mass shooting occurred overnight Tuesday in south Minneapolis, leaving four people dead and one injured.
The Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) responded to the incident, where multiple witnesses identified the shooter as James Duane Ortley, a known gang member.
Key Details
- Suspect: James Duane Ortley, 34
- Gang Affiliation: Native Mob (street names: Baby J, Little J, Little James)
- Location: South Minneapolis
- Date of Incident: Late night, April 29, 2025
- Victims:
- Evan Ramon Denny, 27
- Joseph Douglas Goodwin, 17
- Merelle Joan White, 20
- Leras Rainey (died later at hospital)
- Survivor: One victim (referred to as “Victim 5”) was shot in the face but survived and identified Ortley as the shooter.
Victim 5 told police that Ortley was in the back seat of the vehicle when he opened fire on the five passengers.
Reactions or Statements
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed Ortley’s arrest.
He was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals North Star Fugitive Task Force around 3:30 p.m. Thursday on the 1600 block of South 4th Street.
Ortley will face court for the initial murder charges on Monday in Hennepin County District Court.
Investigation or What’s Next
- Investigators collected surveillance footage showing a single suspect exiting the vehicle post-shooting.
- Witness testimonies and the surviving victim’s statement further tied Ortley to the crime.
- Charges were initially filed with an arrest warrant before Ortley’s apprehension.
- Ortley had previously admitted his gang nickname during an unrelated 2023 homicide interview.
Authorities anticipate additional charges following the fourth victim’s death.
FAQs
Who is James Duane Ortley?
A 34-year-old Minneapolis man alleged to be a member of the Native Mob gang, known by street names like Baby J and Little James.
How many people died in the Minneapolis shooting?
Four individuals lost their lives—three at the scene, one at the hospital.
What led to Ortley’s arrest?
He was identified by a surviving victim and surveillance footage. Arrested by U.S. Marshals on May 1, 2025.
Where did the shooting occur?
Inside a vehicle in south Minneapolis during the overnight hours.
What charges is Ortley facing?
Multiple counts of first-degree murder, with more pending.
Summary / Final Takeaway
A tragic shooting in south Minneapolis has left four people dead, allegedly at the hands of a known gang affiliate.
With strong witness identification and surveillance evidence, James Duane Ortley is in custody and faces serious murder charges.
The community awaits justice as the case moves forward in Hennepin County Court.
