Man Arrested In Minneapolis Mosque Hit-And-Run: 'Potential Bias Crime'

MINNEAPOLIS — A man is in custody after a hit-and-run outside a mosque in Minneapolis Wednesday. The incident is being investigated as a "potential bias crime," police said.

Officers located and arrested 37-year-old James Evan Suttles on the 3900 Block of 2nd Avenue South at about 9:30 p.m., hours after the crash.

Investigators are familiar with the suspect, who has a history of trespassing and acting erratically at the mosque and in the neighborhood, according to police.

"I am proud of the swift and strong response by members of the Minneapolis Police Department," said Chief Brian O’Hara.

"Within hours, this suspect was in custody, and that will help put our community at ease. This arrest is a testament to the hard work and determination of our officers and investigators."

Just before noon Wednesday, a 36-year-old man was in the parking lot of a mosque located at 116 32nd Steet West — retrieving items from his car — when a minivan drove toward him "at a high rate of speed," police said.

The man in the parking lot attempted to run when the driver of the minivan swerved and struck him, according to investigators. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Hennepin Healthcare.

Meanwhile, the driver of the minivan left the area, authorities said.

O’Hara said MPD leadership is in communication with the Imam and staff at the mosque. Police patrols have been "enhanced" to protect those who come and go from the mosque, authorities said.