A teenager was shot and seriously injured last week in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of south Minneapolis, an episode of violence allegedly spurred by a shattered car window.
Authorities charged 35-year-old Ali Abdirashid Jama with second-degree assault following the incident, which took place early on January 28 on the 1800 block of Fifth Street South, CBS News Minnesota reports. The victim, a 16-year-old boy, was found suffering from gunshot wounds to his back and stomach, injuries severe enough to potentially be life-threatening.
Jama's arrest occurred after a witness claimed they were both in Jama's vehicle when the teen allegedly threw a rock through the car window, prompting the chase that led to the shooting. "Once they caught up with him, Jama allegedly exited the vehicle and fought with the boy before shooting him," the witness stated, as per court documents obtained by CBS News Minnesota.
In a police statement, Jama admitted to shooting the boy after a fight ensued but noted that the teen did not make statements nor actions that indicated he was armed. Additional charges against Jama may be pending depending on the full assessment of the boy's injuries, which are currently being treated at Hennepin Healthcare.
The incident has shaken the neighborhood, known for its bustling immigrant community and close ties to the University of Minnesota. A report by Hoodline emphasized that forensic scientists with the Minneapolis Police Department processed the crime scene for evidence, while University police rendered aid during the emergency response.
