On September 2, 2026, Minneapolis officers responded to an active-shooter situation. Multiple civilians had been shot, additional gunfire was reported inside the building, and officers ultimately moved toward the source of the gunfire. Three officers were injured, including two by gunfire. Body-camera footage released after the incident showed officers encountering the suspect shortly after entering the ninth floor.
One of the most important skills an officer can develop for a critical incident is the ability to work effectively with a partner. Basic close-quarters battle (CQB) concepts provide a framework for officers to move, communicate, maintain awareness of their surroundings, and most importantly to support and cover one another in confined environments.
A basic concept such as the wingman technique emphasizes maintaining a coordinated two-person team, with each person understanding their role and supporting the other. The objective isn't complicated, it is developing the communication, awareness and teamwork necessary to avoid becoming two individuals operating independently.
These principles have value beyond law enforcement. In an active-threat situation, civilians who understand basic principles of movement, communication, cover, concealment and working with responding officers may be better prepared to make sound decisions under extreme stress.
This incident demonstrates why CQB training should not be viewed simply as a firearms skill. It is fundamentally about decision-making, communication, movement and teamwork under stress. Those who regularly train together are better positioned to communicate when conditions deteriorate. Just as importantly, understanding how your partner is likely to respond can reduce confusion when seconds matter.
If you want to strengthen those skills, join us for CQB 1 and CQB 2 on October 17–18. The courses will provide an opportunity to build a foundation in close-quarters tactics, partner coordination and the principles necessary to operate more effectively in confined environments.
Train together. Build the fundamentals. Know how to work with your partner before the day comes when you need those skills.
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