Man Accused of Killing Cousins Hours After Jail Release, Shot Dead by Police

Eddie Duncan, 23, allegedly killed two family members in Minneapolis before being killed in a shootout with police in neighboring Brooklyn Center.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A tragic series of events unfolded in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area after 23-year-old Eddie Duncan was released from jail on Monday. Authorities say Duncan allegedly killed two of his cousins, including a 14-year-old, in north Minneapolis. He then traveled to the neighboring city of Brooklyn Center, where he was killed in a shootout with police.

Why it matters

This case has shaken the local community and raised questions about bail reform, mental health evaluations, and public safety concerns when it comes to repeat offenders. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing violence and preventing tragedies like this.

The details

Court records show Duncan was released on bail Monday on charges of fleeing law enforcement and possession of a gun modified with an "auto sear switch." He was ordered to undergo a psychological evaluation, but not until next month. Videos posted on Duncan's social media showed him dancing with a gun and making strange statements, including calling himself "god." When investigators requested a warrant, they said Duncan "poses a threat to public safety," but the judge still set bail at $35,000, which Duncan paid.

  • On Monday, Eddie Duncan was released from jail on bail.
  • The psychological evaluation Duncan was ordered to undergo was scheduled for March 24.

The players

Eddie Duncan

A 23-year-old man accused of killing two of his cousins, including a 14-year-old, in Minneapolis before being killed in a shootout with police in Brooklyn Center.

Dr. Andrea Lovett

A licensed psychologist who has worked as a court examiner, but is not connected to this case. She commented on the pending psychological evaluation for Duncan.

Hennepin County Attorney's Office

The prosecutor's office that noted Duncan was a public safety risk and asked the judge to set a higher-than-normal bail, which Duncan was able to post.

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What they’re saying

“The court might consider does the individual have a lengthy history of violence.”

— Dr. Andrea Lovett, Licensed Psychologist (CBS News)

“In Minnesota, there is a constitutional right to bail, and the bail amount is set by the Court. 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. Mr. Duncan posted $35,000 bail with conditions of release, as is allowed under the Minnesota Constitution, and was released from custody. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by yesterday's violence. This was a terrible tragedy for this family and our community.”

— Hennepin County Attorney's Office (WCCO)

What’s next

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is leading the investigation into Eddie Duncan's fatal shooting in Brooklyn Center.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing mental health issues, bail reform, and public safety concerns when it comes to repeat offenders. It underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to preventing violence and supporting vulnerable individuals and communities.