MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A celebratory evening took a terrifying turn Friday night when gunfire erupted outside the University of Minnesota’s 3M Arena at Mariucci, leaving two people injured. Authorities have identified the suspect as 20-year-old Hamza Abdirashid Said, who is currently in custody on probable cause for second-degree assault.
The shooting happened around 8:20 p.m. on May 30, shortly after a graduation ceremony for Wayzata High School had concluded. The incident occurred in the parking lot outside the arena, not inside the venue itself. Families and students were still in the area when the violence broke out, sparking panic and confusion during what was supposed to be a joyful occasion.
University of Minnesota Interim Police Chief Erik Swanson confirmed that two individuals were shot. A 49-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the head, while a 19-year-old man was shot twice in the thigh. Both victims were taken to Hennepin County Medical Center by emergency responders. Their current conditions have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Police are also investigating reports of a potential third victim who may have left the scene in a private vehicle. Officials have not confirmed that individual’s identity or injuries but are urging anyone with information to come forward. Surveillance footage and witness videos, including one showing a large fight before the shooting, are being reviewed as part of the investigation.
The University of Minnesota Police Department is leading the case, with support from the Minneapolis Police Department and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities have not yet revealed a motive for the shooting or whether the suspect and victims knew each other. Investigators are continuing to interview witnesses and collect evidence from the scene.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz responded to the incident in a statement on social media, calling it “horrific.” He expressed sympathy for the victims and said the state is working with local law enforcement to support the investigation. “A graduation should be a time of joy, not fear,” Walz wrote. Police are asking anyone with videos, photos, or direct knowledge of the shooting to contact the University of Minnesota Police Department. Further updates will be shared as new details emerge.