Reg Chapman : “MPD officer killed by suspect with criminal record”

By Reg Chapman, WCCO Staff

HENNEPIN COUNTY

MINNEAPOLIS — Officials have identified Mustafa Ahmed Mohamed as the man responsible for the shooting and killing of police officer Jamal Mitchell outside an apartment complex in south Minneapolis. The incident, which unfolded during a chaotic mass shooting, resulted in four injuries and a civilian fatality, in addition to the death of the shooter.

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Mohamed was the third individual who died at the scene earlier this week. Sources within law enforcement have revealed that Mohamed turned on Officer Mitchell, whom he initially appeared to seek assistance from, and fatally shot him.

Following the shooting of Officer Mitchell, Mohamed continued to fire at the fallen officer before being shot and killed by responding officers. The medical examiner’s report stated that Mohamed succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is actively investigating the case but has not officially released the identity of the individual responsible for Mitchell’s death.

Mohamed, aged 35, had a criminal history that included a conviction for first-degree burglary in 2007, rendering him ineligible to possess a firearm. He also had an outstanding warrant from a 2022 incident where he was spotted by police at the scene of a robbery in downtown Minneapolis, armed with a gun.

During the 2022 incident, Mohamed attempted to evade arrest by discarding the gun and holster when confronted by law enforcement. He was subsequently apprehended at the scene.

Amidst the tragic events, a civilian named Osman Jimale, 32, was found deceased inside the apartment where the shooting took place. Another civilian and a man sitting in a car outside the building were injured, along with a Minneapolis police officer and firefighter.

A growing memorial outside the 5th Precinct in Minneapolis is honoring Officer Mitchell, who joined the force in 2022 with a commitment to improving community-police relations. Originally from Connecticut, Mitchell leaves behind three children and was engaged to be married.

Community members gathered at the Apostle Supper Club in St. Paul for a fundraising barbecue to support Mitchell’s loved ones. Celebrity chefs, including Chef Brian Ingram, were present to show solidarity and demonstrate the importance of unity in times of tragedy.

The Police Officers Federation of Minneapolis, Law Enforcement Labor Services, and the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association are accepting donations through the LELS Benevolent Fund, with all proceeds directed to Mitchell’s family.

While the community mourns the loss of a hero, questions remain about the motive behind Mohamed’s actions and why he would turn on an officer who responded to a call for help.