St. Paul police investigate deadly shooting of Michael Brasel, 44, in St. Anthony Park neighborhood
UPDATE: The victim was identified Sunday as 44-year-old Michael Brasel. What follows is a revised version of the original story.
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Police in St. Paul are investigating a fatal shooting that took place early Saturday morning.
UPDATE: Boy, 17, charged with shooting youth hockey coach Michael Brasel
Just before 7:30 a.m., police say they received the call of a shooting on the 2300 block of Chilcombe Avenue in St. Paul's St. Anthony Park neighborhood. When police arrived at the scene, they found a man suffering from gunshot injuries.
The man, identified Sunday as 44-year-old Michael Brasel, was taken to Hennepin County Medical Center, where he died. The county medical examiner's office said he died from "multiple gunshot wounds."
According to a GoFundMe account set up for his family, Brasel leaves behind a wife and two sons. It also mentions he was a "devoted coach who inspired and encouraged countless young athletes."
The Roseville Area Youth Hockey Association confirmed Brasel coached for them.
Brasel's widow, Hilary, released the following statement:
"Our hearts are broken and our world has been turned upside down by the senseless act that tragically took Michael's life in the front yard of our home. We are grieving his loss in the here and now, but are also deeply saddened by the fact he won't experience the future moments and milestones with his family that he loved so much.
"We are forever grateful to all of those who have rallied around us. From our beloved hockey and lacrosse families, to our amazing neighbors and friends in the St. Anthony Park neighborhood of Saint Paul, to our steadfast immediate family and close friends who are helping hold us together. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who has offered to help us navigate new worlds we knew nothing about until this tragedy literally landed on our doorstep.
"Michael was an amazing father, husband and friend. He was hardworking, reliable, loyal and lived to laugh. Art, automobiles, music and hockey were his interests, but his family and friends were his true passion. When you were loved by Michael, it was never loud and flashy, but it was always genuine and true.
"We plead with the public to come forward if you know any details, or have any idea of who could have robbed Michael of the life he loved. Michael deserves justice. Our family needs closure. Please reach out to the hardworking, outstanding investigators at the Saint Paul Police Department to help them solve this case. St. Paul Police Department Homicide Unit 651-266-5650."
No arrests have been made. During a Saturday press conference, police called the homicide unusual for the "usually quiet" neighborhood.
It's the 13th homicide in St. Paul this year.
