Prosecutors Allege Antisemitic Motive in Mall Plot

Federal authorities stopped an alleged ISIS-inspired mass-shooting plot at the Mall of America, FOX 9 reports. The U.S. Department of Justice says Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud, 18, of Richfield, Minnesota, was charged with knowingly receiving a firearm and ammunition to commit a federal terrorism crime.

According to the Justice Department, Mohamud sent messages in July 2026 discussing an attack on the mall because he claimed Jews owned it. Prosecutors say he continued discussing his plans in August and September 2026, including buying a firearm and recruiting others. The department also says he sent a video pledging allegiance to ISIS.

FOX 9 reports that an October 24 Hmong Arts Celebration at the mall was also an alleged target. According to the station, prosecutors say Mohamud sent a link to the event while discussing his plans. Organizers describe the celebration as a family-friendly festival highlighting Hmong heritage.

The Justice Department says the FBI arrested Mohamud on Oct. 6 after an undercover employee sold him a rifle and ammunition. Prosecutors allege that he reaffirmed his plan to shoot people at the mall during the transaction. The department says he made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Cowan Wright on Oct. 7.