The suspect who shot MPD police officer Jamal Mitchell had a criminal record and was wanted for weapons possession

MINNEAPOLIS — Authorities have determined the identity of the man who shot and killed a police officer in a chaotic mass shooting outside an apartment complex in south Minneapolis on Thursday. In addition to the gunman, four people were injured and one civilian was killed.

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office identified Mustafa Ahmed Mohamed as the third person to scene Earlier this week. Multiple police sources have told WCCO that Mohamed is the man who killed the police officer Jamal Mitchell.

Mitchell was responding to a shooting call at the apartment and was assisting Mohamed when he turned on the officer and shot him. Police officials say Mohamed continued to shoot Mitchell after he fell to the ground.

Officers returned fire and Mohamed died at the scene. The medical examiner said Mohamed died from multiple gunshot wounds.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is investigating the case. The name of the man who killed Mitchell has not yet been officially confirmed.

Mohamed, 35, was convicted of first-degree burglary in 2007 and was prohibited from carrying a firearm. He had an outstanding warrant for his arrest dating back to a 2022 incident. According to court documents, he was seen by police with a gun at the scene of a robbery in downtown Minneapolis.

When Mohamed saw police coming, he allegedly hid the gun behind a pillar. As police pursued him, he threw a gun holster to the side and was arrested at the scene.

On Thursday, a civilian – later identified as a 32-year-old – Osman Jimale — was found dead in the apartment. Another civilian in the building was injured, as was a man sitting in his car outside the building. A Minneapolis police officer and firefighter were also injured.

A memorial is being built outside the 5th Precinct in Minneapolis to honor Mitchell, who joined the Minneapolis Police Department in 2022 with the goal of improving relations between the community and the police. Originally from Connecticut, Mitchell was a father of three and engaged to be married.

The congregation gathered at the Apostle Supper Club in St. Paul on Saturday for a charity barbecue, with all proceeds going to benefit Mitchell’s family.

“We wanted to come and support, so we made reservations and here we are. We’re meeting wonderful friends and family, so this is definitely important,” said Trinny Cee.

Chef Brian Ingram and other celebrity chefs were on hand to show their support for Mitchell’s family and everyone who wears the uniform.

“We want to show them our love. So when they come here and see that there are so many people here supporting them, I think that’s what these officers need more than anything right now: to know that they are loved and that they matter. That’s such an important part of it,” Ingram said.

For most, it was an opportunity to do something to help heal the community.

“It’s not just about the food and drinks, it’s really about showing people that we’re there for each other,” said Jammetta Raspberry.

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

While many still mourn the loss of a hero, the question remains unanswered as to why the man shot a police officer who was responding to a call for help.

Note: The above video first aired on May 31, 2024.