Major Mall of America attack plot foiled as FBI arrests man over planned mass shooting
BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA: An alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting at Minnesota’s Mall of America has been disrupted before the suspected attacker could put it into action, federal authorities said on Wednesday, October 7.
An 18-year-old man was arrested after investigators said he had discussed plans for an attack at the busy shopping complex.
The alleged plot was uncovered through an FBI investigation involving a confidential source and an undercover operation, according to newly filed federal court documents.
Suspect allegedly targeted October event
Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud is accused of planning an attack at the Mall of America on October 24.
Investigators say Mohamud had identified a Hmong Arts Celebration taking place at the mall as his intended target because he expected a large crowd to be present.
According to the federal affidavit, Mohamud allegedly told an FBI confidential source that he wanted to kill between 30 and 60 people.
He also allegedly discussed driving directly to a crowded location and opening fire.
Prosecutors say his plans were inspired by an extremist group and that he had previously talked about travelling abroad to fight for the organisation.
When that plan did not materialise, investigators allege that he shifted his attention to carrying out an attack inside the United States.
The investigation eventually moved toward an undercover operation.
Authorities say Mohamud was introduced to a person he believed was connected to the violent group and capable of supplying him with a weapon.
On September 25, he allegedly indicated that he wanted a rifle, magazines and ammunition and expressed interest in having the weapon fully automatic.
The meeting took place Tuesday, according to the court documents.
Mohamud allegedly paid $600 for a rifle, four magazines and approximately 200 rounds of ammunition.
The rifle had been deliberately rendered inoperable by investigators, while the ammunition was live.
Authorities say he left the meeting carrying the weapons and ammunition in a duffel bag. FBI agents then moved in and arrested him.
Suspect's extremist group allegiance revealed
Investigators say Mohamud had been discussing violence for months before the arrest.
In one alleged message, he expressed a desire to travel to Somalia to fight on behalf of extremist group.
Authorities also said he later sent the confidential source a video in which he pledged allegiance to the group and its leader.
The federal complaint charges Mohamud with knowingly receiving a firearm and ammunition while knowing, or having reason to believe, they would be used in connection with a felony and federal crime.
The allegations remain accusations and Mohamud is entitled to due process.
President Donald Trump reacted after the alleged plot was disrupted, praising the federal agents involved.
FBI Director Kash Patel also credited investigators for intervening before the alleged attack could take place and saving lives.
