A suspected plot for mass violence was uncovered after Mohamed Adan Mohamed’s shoplifting arrest led police to a disturbing arsenal and suspicious survival plans.
At a Glance
- Mohamed arrested after shoplifting $2,000+ of ammo and tactical gear
- Survival gear list found at the scene detailed preparation for violence
- Search revealed assault rifles and 3D-printed guns at Mohamed’s home
- Mohamed charged with felony theft and threats of violence
Details of the Arrest
Authorities arrested Mohamed Adan Mohamed, 24, on April 17 following a brazen shoplifting attempt at a Mankato sporting goods store. According to CBS News Minnesota, Mohamed fled in a van with no license plates after allegedly stealing ammunition and tactical supplies valued at over $2,000.
Investigators quickly discovered a handwritten “Survival Gear List with Alternative” abandoned at the scene, listing items including magazines, knives, and pepper spray—hinting at broader, sinister intentions. Further investigation unearthed troubling online videos showing Mohamed brandishing firearms, leading to an urgent search of his residence.
Watch FOX9’s coverage of Mohamed’s arrest.
Alarming Findings and Legal Fallout
A police search of Mohamed’s home led to the seizure of an assault rifle, ammunition, and multiple 3D-printed firearms. Authorities immediately secured a protection order to prevent further access to weapons. Law enforcement emphasized that the evidence pointed toward plans for a mass casualty event, with officials telling The New York Post there were “strong indicators that Mohamed was preparing to conduct some sort of mass casualty event in the next 24 hours.”
Mohamed now faces felony charges, including theft and threats of violence, and remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Community Reaction and Mental Health Concerns
Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow over Mohamed’s arrest. A neighbor, Dunia, reflected on his struggles, saying, “He has a very beautiful heart. He’s a really good guy. It’s just, he’s not mentally, physically there right now at the moment.”
Mohamed had been known to law enforcement through past nonviolent interactions. St. Peter Police Chief Matt Grochow noted, “We left with an understanding that at that moment he was safe, and that moment the community was safe.”
However, recent developments dramatically shifted that perception, highlighting the thin line between mental health struggles and emerging threats.
Law Enforcement’s Swift Response
The swift action by local police undoubtedly prevented what could have been a devastating tragedy. Their attention to detail—from investigating the shoplifting case to pursuing a search warrant—underscored the importance of vigilance in public safety.
Watch more about the police response here.
Mohamed’s case underscores broader concerns about the intersection of mental health, radicalization, and access to weapons. As investigations unfold, authorities stress the need for community awareness and timely intervention to prevent future threats.
The community of St. Peter and broader Minnesota remains on alert but grateful for the decisive actions that protected lives from a potentially horrific event.
