An 18-year-old man, Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud, has been arrested in Minnesota after a lengthy investigation into his alleged plans to carry out a mass shooting at the Mall of America. The arrest was made by federal agents following a two-year inquiry led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The Department of Justice (DOJ) released details of the case, highlighting the seriousness of the charges against the young man.
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Mohamud was apprehended on Tuesday, 6 October 2024, after he was allegedly found to have purchased a rifle, ammunition, and magazines from an undercover FBI agent. The alleged intent behind these purchases was to execute an attack inspired by ISIS, targeting a Hmong Arts Celebration scheduled for 24 October 2024 at the mall, which is located in Bloomington, Minnesota.
According to the indictments issued by the DOJ, Mohamud not only intended to cause mass casualties but reportedly sought to emulate previous attacks, including the tragic mass shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in 2016 and other high-profile incidents in New Orleans and Australia. U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen expressed grave concern over the case, stating that Mohamud had taken “substantial steps” to orchestrate violence against innocent individuals under the guise of extremist beliefs.
The criminal complaint details that Mohamud began his online discussions about violent acts as early as December 2022. Initially expressing a desire to travel abroad to join a terrorist organisation, he later indicated that due to financial constraints, he would resort to committing a mass casualty event within Minnesota as an alternative.
In July 2025, Mohamud reportedly expressed a specific interest in targeting the Mall of America, claiming that it was “owned by Jews”. His disturbing plan included a desire to kill between 30 to 60 people, stating that this would deter others from visiting the mall, as outlined in the DOJ report. This chilling calculation underscores his commitment to a violent ideology.
Throughout the months leading up to his arrest, Mohamud continued to articulate his intentions via various messaging platforms, revealing not only his plans to buy a firearm but also to enlist others to assist him in the attack. He went so far as to send videos pledging his allegiance to ISIS, demonstrating his commitment to the extremist cause.
By September 2025, Mohamud had reportedly made it clear to a confidential source that his planned attack would coincide with the Hmong Arts Celebration. He even sent propaganda materials to support his intentions, indicating a premeditated goal to inflict harm on individuals attending the event.
The arrest was executed as Mohamud attempted to finalise the purchase of an AK-47 assault rifle and associated ammunition from the undercover agent, with payment amounting to $600. Following the completion of the transaction, Mohamud was taken into custody by the FBI.
He made his initial court appearance on 7 October 2024, where the prosecution was taken up by members of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Prosecutors have laid one count of knowingly receiving a firearm and ammunition with the intent to commit a federal crime of terrorism against him, underlining the seriousness of the charges.
This incident highlights an ongoing concern regarding home-grown terrorism and the influence of extremist ideologies. As the investigation continues, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent such acts of violence from occurring within the community. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining aware of potential threats and the need for proactive measures in safeguarding public spaces.