Mustafa Ahmed Mohamed Named as Gunman in Deadly Ambush That Killed Officer Jamal Mitchell and Civilian Osman Said Jimale
Minneapolis — Mustafa Ahmed Mohamed has been identified by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s office as the suspect behind Thursday’s mass shooting in south Minneapolis, which resulted in the deaths of Officer Jamal Mitchell and civilian Osman Said Jimale.
The tragic incident began around 5:20 p.m. when Minneapolis police responded to a double shooting report at an apartment complex in the Whittier neighborhood. Officer Jamal Mitchell, 36, one of the first to arrive while on a mandated overtime shift, was ambushed and fatally shot by Mohamed. The assailant, who had a history of violent crime and outstanding warrants, was killed in a subsequent shootout with police.
The civilian victim, Osman Said Jimale, 32, was found with multiple gunshot wounds in Apartment 18 at 2221 Blaisdell Avenue. The chaotic scene also resulted in injuries to a second police officer, a firefighter, a bystander, and another individual.
Details of the Incident
The sequence of events leading to the shootout began with Mohamed shooting Jimale and critically injuring another person inside the apartment. Witnesses reported multiple gunshots, and a resident, Reuben Molina, described hearing four or five shots from an apartment below. Molina witnessed two men leaving the complex before more gunfire erupted.
Cory Jones, a bystander, recorded the aftermath as he saw officers huddled behind a fire truck and heard at least 11 gunshots. Officer Mitchell, attempting to provide aid, was ambushed and killed by Mohamed. The attack was captured on Mitchell’s body-worn camera, although the footage has not been released publicly.
Mohamed’s Criminal History
Court documents reveal Mohamed’s extensive criminal record, including convictions for first-degree burglary, third-degree burglary, and first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle. In 2013, he was indicted for being a felon in possession of ammunition and a firearm. In a related 2014 incident, Mohamed was found with a handgun magazine and a folding knife, leading to the discovery of a hidden nine-millimeter handgun.
Community and Official Reactions
The Whittier neighborhood, known for its diversity and vibrant community life, was deeply shocked by the incident. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz expressed their sorrow and called for a thorough investigation. “The city of Minneapolis lost a hero in police officer Jamal Mitchell,” Frey said. “This officer gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect and save the lives of others.”
Governor Walz emphasized the need for a commitment to public safety, stating, “The trauma quickly should turn to anger and a commitment that this cannot happen.”
Officer Mitchell, a father and engaged to be married, had been with the department for 18 months and was recognized for his bravery and dedication. Memorials have begun to appear in his honor as the community mourns his loss.
The BCA is leading the investigation to uncover the motives behind the shootings and the connections between the involved individuals. While it is believed that Mohamed knew the victims in the apartment, the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear.
