Rochester, MN- An area community is coming together in an effort to stop gang violence. Less than a month ago we told you about two shootings less than a week apart in northwest Rochester.
The first was at a playground, where police say someone was hit in the stomach. The second was a drive by shooting at a house a few blocks away. No one was injured, when three bullets hit a bedroom. Police believe both could be gang related.
On Friday night at the Watson Sports Complex in Rochester around 200 people gathered to find out how they can help local law enforcement put a stop to crime.
Wayne Bowers moved to Rochester ten years ago to raise his family. He says the city has a small town feel.
“Rochester I know is a lot larger than that, but it has that small town feel to it, that really has drawn me to where my family has made it our home,” Bowers said.
The father of three boys was out of town during the week of the shootings. But hearing the news caused fear for their safety.
“I was really shocked and surprised, the events that close together in my backyard was startling,” he said.
On Friday Bowers brought his wife and kids to the park, for some fun, and also to show support for his community.
“I’m afraid to see what will happen in another five years if we don’t start doing something,” said anti-gang rally organizer Bill Chappuis.
He has grown tired of gang activity in his town. So he decided to get the community together as a show of force against violence.
“I get a lot of people from the area coming in and saying lets do something, this is ridiculous,” he said.
Members of the local police and sheriff's departments were on hand to answer questions. City officials also came to show their support. Chappuis wants to let people who break the law know that Rochester isn't going to back down.
“We have to start being proactive and not reactive as a community,” Chappuis said.
Bowers just wants his family to be safe.
“We don’t want to see our community go that direction, which is why we wanted to come out and show support,” he said.
Chappuis told folks at the rally one way to help local law enforcement are making a log of things that look suspicious in your area. Keeping a notebook of cars and license plate numbers will give officers a record to use.
If you witness a crime or would like the police to check something out call them at (507) 285-8200.
| 
