A tragic incident unfolded in Fargo on Friday afternoon, resulting in the death of a police officer and injuries to two others. The suspect involved in the shooting was also killed, while a civilian sustained serious injuries. The Fargo Police Department has since released more information about the officers involved, including the identity of the officer who lost his life. The community is now grappling with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.
Police in Fargo confirmed the death of an officer and the injury of two others following a shooting on Friday afternoon. The suspect, a 37-year-old Fargo resident named Mohamad Barakat, also died from his injuries. The officers who sustained critical injuries have been identified as Andrew Dotas and Tyler Hawes. They are currently listed in critical but stable condition. The fallen officer has been identified as 23-year-old Jake Wallin, who joined the Fargo Police Department in April 2023 after graduating from the Fargo Police Academy IV.
According to witnesses, the incident began when a man opened fire on police officers around 3 p.m. on Friday. Other officers swiftly responded, shooting the suspect. Shortly after the initial incident, law enforcement officers converged on a residential area approximately 2 miles away, evacuating residents and collecting evidence related to the shooting. The community has been left in shock, with many expressing their support for the police department during this difficult time.
The police department has placed Officer Zachary Robinson, who took down the suspect, on administrative leave, following standard protocol in such cases.
Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the incident. Shannon Nichole, who was driving at the time, witnessed the traffic stop and heard gunshots as she passed by. Her airbag deployed, and a bullet pierced her driver’s door. Another witness, Chenoa Peterson, was driving with her daughter when the suspect began firing at the police. Peterson’s first instinct was to help, but she ultimately decided to leave the area with her daughter. Surveillance video captured the rapid sounds of gunfire, further highlighting the intensity of the situation.
The Fargo community has rallied around its police department, with messages of support pouring in from local agencies and neighboring states. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his condolences and offered assistance to the grieving community. As the investigation continues, the Fargo Police Department is urging patience and understanding from the public. The department is releasing information as it becomes available.