Fatal shooting in St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood prompts investigation

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - Editors note: Authorities confirmed on April 5 that the victim is Robert James Brown, 41, of St. Paul. See the original story below.

Police are investigating a fatal overnight shooting in the St. Paul neighborhood of Frogtown.

St. Paul Police Sgt. Mike Ernster said in a press conference Wednesday morning that dispatch received multiple 911 calls shortly after 1 a.m. describing a "chaotic scene." The reports included reports of shots fired, people in the area screaming, cars speeding in and out of the area, and that someone had been shot. 

Police responded to the scene near Lafond Avenue and Grotto Street North but did not locate the victim. Another 911 call came shortly later reporting the victim was being transported to Regions Hospital by private vehicle.

Police said the victim, only identified as a man, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. The Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office will identify the victim and determine the cause and manner of his death.

Law enforcement secured the scene and canvassed the area for witnesses and evidence. Police said that while they spoke to some witnesses, it’s believed there are others who saw the incident who have not spoken to authorities. 

Investigators are still working to determine the circumstances of the shooting. 

This is the second fatal shooting St. Paul police have investigated this week. On Monday, 19-year-old Omar Noor Nunow was fatally shot in an apartment after a man was playing with a gun and claimed it accidentally went off, according to court records.  

Wednesday's shooting was the seventh homicide of 2024 for the city. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact St. Paul police at 651-266-5650.