No evidence of stabbing in Breezy Point, despite large police response

BREEZY POINT — A report of a disturbance triggered a large police response Tuesday, May 19, in Breezy Point, but authorities say they’ve found no evidence of a crime.

Law enforcement responded to a reported stabbing around 4:30 p.m. A caller told authorities that he saw a man chase another man with a large knife, according to police radio traffic.

Officers from multiple area agencies converged near the Breezy Point Hockey Center to establish a perimeter. The Crow Wing County drone team and two K-9s from the sheriff’s office assisted in the response, and officers went door-to-door in the neighborhood.

The Breezy Point Police Department said Tuesday evening that it had found no evidence of a crime and has no reason to believe there is a danger to the public.

“When we get a call, we have to respond accordingly, essentially, until we can vet out the information and look into it,” Sgt. Josef Garcia said in a brief interview Wednesday morning. “And then we adjust the resources as necessary.”

Breezy Point Police would not confirm that the initial report was of a stabbing, instead saying it responded to a "disturbance/suspicious activity."

A second release shared Wednesday morning said officers continue to follow up on information from witnesses, area residents and assisting agencies.

“The investigation remains active, and the Breezy Point Police Department continues to ask anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the department at 218-562-4488,” the release stated. “As always, suspicious activity in real time should be reported immediately by calling 911.”

When asked if police were investigating the reported incident or whether it was a hoax, Garcia said, “We are looking into all investigative avenues.”

Garcia and Police Chief Brian Sandell declined to share any additional details about the incident, pointing instead to the department’s news releases.