by MINNEAPOLIS, MN — After nearly four months on the run, 19-year-old Bernard Bowens — the suspect in a deadly St. Cloud shooting — has been taken into custody, bringing some closure to a case that shocked communities across Minnesota and drew attention from neighboring states, including Wyoming.
On Tuesday, May 27, law enforcement officers arrested Bowens on the 2700 block of North Upton Avenue in Minneapolis. The St. Cloud Police Department confirmed the arrest, which was made without incident thanks to joint efforts with the Minneapolis Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force.
Bowens is accused of fatally shooting 17-year-old Layson Davis during a botched gun or drug transaction on February 2. Felony charges of second- and third-degree murder were filed just days later, on February 6. With Bowens now in custody at the Benton County Jail, his case will move forward in court.
The tragedy reverberated beyond Minnesota’s borders, including into Wyoming, where authorities and residents alike have been following the high-profile case due to its implications for regional crime prevention efforts.
The investigation took an unusual turn when Bowens allegedly tried to contact Minnesota Governor Tim Walz via an online form, according to a search warrant application. In his message, Bowens wrote:
“I would like to speak to you (Walz) one-on-one please… I’m just a young man that ended up in a bad predicament. You’re my last chance at hope, so please find it in your heart to contact me. I promise I’m not what the news is making me out to be.”
The February 2 shooting also left 19-year-old Victor Diaz injured. Diaz’s alleged shooter, Kevon Washington, was arrested in Wausau, Wisconsin, on February 24. Washington is facing felony charges of second-degree attempted murder and first-degree aiding and abetting aggravated robbery. His bail is set at $4 million, and his next court appearance is scheduled for August 8.
Two other individuals tied to the same incident are also facing charges. Olivia Williams, accused of helping drive the getaway car, pleaded guilty on May 7 to aiding an offender. Her sentencing is set for July 9. Quinton McNeal, who allegedly helped orchestrate the ambush, is expected to plead guilty to aiding and abetting aggravated robbery during a hearing on June 6.
The multi-agency arrest of Bowens demonstrates the effectiveness of law enforcement coordination across jurisdictions. As neighboring states like Wyoming continue monitoring the case, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of collaboration and vigilance in tackling violent crime.
