Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty responded Tuesday to concerns about why the suspect in a double homicide earlier this week in north Minneapolis was able to make bail, just hours before the shooting occurred.
Court records show 24-year-old Eddie Darin Duncan was arrested on February 15 for fleeing police and possessing a modified handgun.
Moriarty's office clarified that her office had identified him as a public safety risk and sought a higher, $70,000 bond just hours before he allegedly killed two cousins in front of their grandmother.
"In Minnesota, there is a constitutional right to bail, and the bail amount is set by the Court," the County Attorney's office said in a statement. "Our office noted a public safety risk with Mr. Duncan and asked the judge to set bail at $70,000, or $35,000 with conditions; both of which are higher than we would typically request in this scenario. The judge set bail in that amount."
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara added that the suspect had a criminal record and was known by the MPD, also saying he was a threat to the public.
Duncan later died following a shootout with Brooklyn Center Police. Authorities say the suspect fired at police first before officers returned fire.
“Our thoughts are with all those impacted by yesterday’s violence. This was a terrible tragedy for this family and our community," Moriarty added.