Tragedy in Bloomington: Community Reels After Fatal Shooting Leaves One Dead and Another Facing Life-Altering Charges
The early morning hours of Sunday, June 23, 2025, marked a deeply tragic and sobering moment for the Bloomington community, as a devastating act of violence claimed the life of one young man and forever changed the life of another. According to authorities, 24-year-old Andy Tapia Negrete was fatally shot in an incident that has left the community stunned and grieving. 18-year-old Exon Alfonso Sanchez-Garzon has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, unfolded in a quiet Bloomington neighborhood. Police responded to reports of gunfire and arrived to find Tapia Negrete with life-threatening injuries. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, Sanchez-Garzon, was taken into custody shortly thereafter and is now facing charges that could result in decades behind bars, if convicted.
A Community in Shock
For the residents of Bloomington—a city that prides itself on being close-knit and community-oriented—the tragedy is more than just a crime statistic; it’s a painful reminder of how quickly and senselessly lives can be lost to violence.
Andy Tapia Negrete, remembered by friends and family as a kind, hardworking, and deeply loyal individual, had his life cut short just as he was building his future. Friends say he was known for his easy smile, generous spirit, and his commitment to those he loved. His sudden death has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him best.
“Andy had so much life ahead of him,” said one family friend through tears. “He was someone who truly cared about people. He didn’t deserve this. No one does.”
A memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes has grown at the site of the shooting, as community members come together to mourn and express their outrage, confusion, and heartbreak over the tragedy.
A Life Cut Short, Another Forever Changed
While the community mourns Andy’s death, it also must come to terms with the stark reality facing Exon Alfonso Sanchez-Garzon, who now stands accused of taking a life and potentially losing his own future to the criminal justice system. At just 18 years old, Sanchez-Garzon is now at the center of a case that underscores the devastating consequences of violence, particularly among youth.
According to preliminary reports, the altercation that led to the shooting may have stemmed from a personal dispute. Investigators are still piecing together the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including what led up to the confrontation and whether others were involved or present.
Sanchez-Garzon remains in custody, and court proceedings are expected to begin in the coming days. He faces a charge of second-degree murder, which in Minnesota carries a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison. Prosecutors have not yet indicated whether they will pursue the maximum penalty, but the case is already stirring significant public debate about gun access, conflict resolution, and how to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Community Calls for Healing, Accountability, and Action
In the wake of this tragedy, local leaders and community organizers are calling for unity and healing. Many are urging residents to look beyond the headlines and consider the systemic issues that often underlie such acts of violence—poverty, lack of mental health support, youth disenfranchisement, and easy access to firearms.
“We cannot let this be just another tragic story that fades from memory,” said one local activist. “This is a call to action. A call to look at how we are raising, guiding, and supporting our young people. We failed two families on Sunday morning—one lost a son to death, the other to prison.”
Local clergy and nonprofit leaders are organizing community conversations and vigils in the coming days to give people a place to grieve and process the tragedy. Mental health professionals have also stepped forward to offer counseling services, especially to those directly affected by the shooting.
Remembering Andy Tapia Negrete
As the investigation continues and legal proceedings move forward, many in Bloomington are choosing to focus on remembering Andy—not for the way he died, but for how he lived. Described as someone with a big heart and a strong sense of responsibility, Andy leaves behind grieving family, friends, and co-workers who now face life without him.
“He always looked out for others,” said a childhood friend. “Whether it was helping a neighbor or supporting his siblings, Andy had this quiet strength about him. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
A public memorial service is being planned, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Andy’s family with funeral costs and other unexpected expenses. Contributions have been pouring in as the community seeks to surround the Tapia Negrete family with love and support in their time of sorrow.
