Governor Tim Walz's claims that his son witnessed a shooting at a Minnesota community center have come under scrutiny, as conflicting reports reveal his son was actually inside the building during the incident, raising questions about the accuracy of Walz's narrative.
Governor Tim Walz's narrative surrounding a shooting incident at a Minnesota recreational center has sparked questions following conflicting statements about his son’s involvement. During a recent Vice Presidential debate, Walz claimed his son, Gus, “witnessed a shooting at a Community Center.” However, this assertion is questionable, given reports that place Gus inside the building during the January 2023 incident.
The shooting occurred on January 18, 2023, after a fight broke out in the parking lot of the center. An employee, Exavir Dwayne Binford Jr., reportedly felt threatened after being attacked by a group of teens. In response, he pulled out his handgun and shot one of the individuals involved in the altercation. Binford Jr. later pleaded guilty to first-degree assault in December 2023.
Following the debate, the Minnesota Star Tribune clarified that Gus Walz was indeed in the building when the shooting took place outside. Witnesses, including St. Paul Parks aquatics supervisor David Albornoz, confirmed that Gus remained inside the gym while the chaos unfolded just steps away.
Walz's earlier comments made at a September 12 campaign stop also varied significantly, with him stating, “My own son was in a location where someone was shot in the head.” This description diverges from his debate assertion and raises further doubts about the accuracy of his claims.
As more details emerge, the discrepancies in Walz's statements suggest a concerning pattern of misrepresentation regarding a serious event. As the gubernatorial race heats up, voters may demand clarity on Walz's narrative and the implications of his portrayal of the incident.