Apple Valley, Minnesota — A Minnesota man has admitted to shooting an 18-year-old in the face during a violent confrontation at a public park after what prosecutors say began as an attempt to locate his sister.
Ibrahim Ali Mohamed, 21, pleaded guilty Monday to one count of first-degree assault, bringing the criminal case a step closer to sentencing more than a year after the shooting that left the victim with life-threatening injuries.
According to the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, Mohamed’s plea agreement calls for a prison sentence ranging from seven years to 10 years and nine months. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 7.
Park Search Escalated Into Violent Confrontation
Court documents state that the incident occurred on May 10, 2025, at Kelley Park in Apple Valley, a suburb located south of Minneapolis.
Investigators said Mohamed went to the park with several friends after becoming concerned because he could not reach his sister by phone. Authorities said he was able to see her location through his cellphone and went to find her.
While searching the park, Mohamed allegedly became involved in an argument with another group of people.
According to prosecutors, Mohamed’s sister noticed him approaching, and one of her friends attempted to calm the situation before it escalated.
Prosecutors Say Gun Was Used During Fight
Authorities allege the confrontation quickly turned violent when Mohamed attempted to pull out a handgun.
Court records state that his sister’s friend tried to stop him, but Mohamed allegedly struck multiple people with the firearm before chasing individuals through the park while still armed.
Investigators said tensions continued to rise even after several people fled the area.
According to the criminal complaint, one person later received a threatening message that read:
“If you don’t come back, I’m going to kill your friend.”
Police say the message prompted the 18-year-old victim to return to the park.
Victim Shot in the Face After Returning to Park
According to investigators, the victim was driving back into Kelley Park when Mohamed allegedly opened fire on the vehicle.
Police said 10 shots were fired, and the victim was struck in the face.
The injuries were described as life-threatening, requiring extensive surgery to the victim’s face, neck and chest.
Authorities have not released updated information regarding the victim’s long-term recovery.
Investigation Contradicted Defendant’s Initial Claims
During the investigation, Mohamed reportedly claimed that the vehicle had been speeding into the park and that someone inside fired at him first.
However, investigators said they found no evidence that anyone other than Mohamed discharged a firearm during the incident.
The findings became a key part of the case as prosecutors pursued serious assault charges against the defendant.
With Mohamed now admitting guilt, the criminal proceedings are entering their final stage ahead of sentencing later this year.
If the court accepts the plea agreement, the 21-year-old could spend up to nearly 11 years in state prison for the shooting.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you believe disputes like this can be prevented through earlier intervention? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.