A TJ Maxx and Napa Auto Parts Store in St. Paul, Minneapolis, are reportedly on fire as protests continue in the city following the death of George Floyd.
“A Fire has been reported at TJ Maxx on the 1400 block of University Avenue,” the St. Paul Police Department tweeted. “Officers continue to be hit with rocks and bottles thrown by people who are also breaking into buildings, looting and destroying property.”
The police department also tweeted: “A large fire has broken out at the Napa Auto Parts Store at 1271 University Avenue West. Please avoid the area.”
In another tweet, the police department wrote: “Please stay away from the Midway area, near Target on University Avenue. We continue to work to disperse the crowds, protect people and protect property. However, our officers continue to be assaulted and the area is not safe.”
This comes after Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order activating the Minnesota National Guard after protests and demonstrations erupted through the state and city of St. Paul.
Floyd’s death sparked protests across the country after a video surfaced showing the 46-year-old black man handcuffed and on the ground saying, “I can’t breathe,” as a police officer holds him down with a knee on his neck.