ROBBINSDALE, Minn — On Monday, the Hennepin County Attorney announced that no evidence of inappropriate behavior by law enforcement was found and no charges will be filed in the death of Khalil Azad.
Police said on July 3, 2022, Azad fled a traffic stop after crashing his vehicle. Two days later, his body was found in Crystal Lake in Robbinsdale.
In the days after his death, the medical examiner concluded Azad died by accidental drowning. However, members of Azad's family and the Robbinsdale community started questioning law enforcement's official account. The public's skepticism arose in late February, as social media posts started to circulate with graphic images purported to be the body of Azad.
In March, Robbinsdale police released both the body-worn and squad camera footage from three officers who responded to the initial traffic stop in response to the public's push for answers. Also in March, Robbinsdale police requested an investigation into the case.
On Monday, the Hennepin County Attorney's Office sent out a news release that said: "Based on the evidence uncovered in the BCA's investigation, Azad died by tragic accidental drowning in Crystal Lake." The Hennepin County Medical Examiner conducted a full toxicology examination and autopsy. The report gives details about the condition of Azad’s body and indicates "no finding that any apparent injuries or Azad’s death were either self-inflicted or caused by another person."
"My thoughts are with Khalil Azad's family and loved ones in this difficult time," Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said in the release. "Losing someone so young is devastating. Although this is not the result they hoped for, our victim support team remains available to help them through this extremely difficult time."
Azad's family, when reached by KARE 11 News, expressed disappointment.
"Clearly we're disappointed. This is kind of shock to us," Azad's mother and sister said by phone.
Robbinsdale Police, which requested the independent BCA investigation, released a statement:
“Our continued sympathies and condolences go out to the Azad family. As seen on the body worn cameras, everyone involved in this incident was treated respectfully and compassionately by our officers in the Robbinsdale Police Department. This is the expectation of our staff,” Chief Foley added.
An internal policy investigation conducted by the Robbinsdale Police Department has also cleared any of its officers of any improper conduct as well.