A late-night argument on a Minneapolis street ended in fatal gunfire for Mario Ray Sparkman, 46. Shortly before midnight on September 4, 2024, Sparkman was shot multiple times on South Portland Avenue near East 15th Street; he was found with critical injuries and later pronounced dead. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner ruled the death a homicide from multiple gunshot wounds.

Investigators say the shooting followed an argument and that a person seen fleeing on foot left the scene. No arrests have been announced. Sparkman worked as a manager at Interstate Parking Minneapolis/St. Paul and is remembered by colleagues and community members. If anyone has information about the shooting or the person who fled, contact Minneapolis police.