Pop-up Blockades Raise Concerns About Emergency Response Times in Minneapolis

Fire chief warns that the impromptu street blockades could hamper the ability of ambulances and fire trucks to reach those in need.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Neighbors in Minneapolis have been gathering at intersections on weekends, sometimes slowing traffic or fully blocking streets, as part of a grassroots effort to watch for federal immigration agents. However, the Minneapolis Fire Department has raised concerns that these pop-up blockades could significantly delay emergency response times, potentially putting lives at risk. The interim fire chief stated that fire trucks and ambulances often don't know a street is blocked until they come upon it, forcing them to back up or reroute, which will slow down their response.

Why it matters

The blockades, while intended to protect the community, could have unintended consequences by hindering the ability of emergency responders to reach those in need of medical attention or other urgent assistance. This raises concerns about public safety and the potential for tragic outcomes if loved ones experience a medical emergency and face delays in care.

The details

The Minneapolis Fire Department says the pop-up nature of the blockades makes emergency response especially difficult, as fire trucks and ambulances often don't know a street is blocked until they come upon it, forcing them to back up or reroute. This delay in response time is a significant concern, as state law makes it a misdemeanor to block a public right-of-way. While the organizers of the grassroots movement say the gatherings will continue for now, the fire department emphasizes that this is about safety and ensuring the roads remain clear for emergency vehicles.

  • The blockades have been occurring on weekends in Minneapolis.

The players

Melanie Rucker

The interim Minneapolis fire chief who has raised concerns about the impact of the pop-up blockades on emergency response times.

Luke Anderson

A Minneapolis resident who understands the goal of the blockades but worries about unintended consequences, such as delays in emergency care for loved ones.

Minneapolis Spring

A grassroots group providing support to the movement against ICE in the Twin Cities, which has not yet responded to requests for comment.

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What they’re saying

“Heaven forbid that a loved one has a medical emergency and there's some delay in care, in getting there, from an ambulance. That would be awful.”

— Luke Anderson, Minneapolis Resident (CBS News)

“They're not just people; there are actually physical items within the roadway, and they are a concern because they block access to emergency vehicles.”

— Melanie Rucker, Interim Minneapolis Fire Chief (CBS News)

“That is going to slow us down, it's going to delay the response.”

— Melanie Rucker, Interim Minneapolis Fire Chief (CBS News)

What’s next

The Minneapolis Fire Department and local authorities will continue to monitor the situation and work with the community to find a balance between the need for public safety and the right to peaceful protest.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex challenges that can arise when grassroots movements intersect with the critical need for emergency services to operate efficiently. While the intentions behind the blockades may be understandable, the potential consequences for public safety cannot be ignored, and finding a solution that addresses both concerns will be crucial moving forward.