Crime
13-year-old Qudir Blackwell killed in accidental shooting by 14-year-old in Minneapolis home
The 14-year-old was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center.
In the early hours of November 5, 2024, Minneapolis police officers responded to an emergency call reporting an accidental shooting at a residence in the 2400 block of North Ferrant Place.
Arriving at approximately 1:30 a.m., officers found a 13-year-old boy, later identified as Qudir D. Blackwell, who had sustained a single gunshot wound.
Despite immediate medical aid provided by first responders, Blackwell tragically succumbed to his injuries on the scene.
Initial investigations reveal that a 14-year-old boy was handling a firearm when the weapon discharged, striking Blackwell.
Authorities have not released the identity of the older teen, who remained on-site following the incident.
The 14-year-old was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center.
At the time of the shooting, two adult women and other juveniles were present in the home, according to investigators.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under review, and detectives are working to determine how the young teen gained access to the firearm.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The death of a child is always incredibly troubling and tragic. Our investigators will work diligently to answer the many questions we have. In addition to supporting the families impacted by this tragedy, everyone must make every effort to ensure that every gun is securely stored.”
This incident underscores the importance of gun safety and secure storage, especially in homes with children. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to provide answers to the family and community.
Norman, Oklahoma – A suspect initially believed to be armed has been apprehended by law enforcement following an extensive pursuit near the University of Oklahoma (OU) campus. The individual is reportedly connected to a stolen vehicle incident in Noble that prompted a multi-agency response and temporary school lockdowns.
According to Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) Lt. Eric Foster, at approximately 9:00 a.m., OHP was alerted by Cleveland County authorities and the Norman Police Department (NPD) that officers were in pursuit of a stolen vehicle occupied by multiple individuals. During the incident, law enforcement managed to apprehend three of the suspects, but one individual evaded capture, prompting an extensive manhunt.
The Noble Police Department later confirmed that the suspect’s attempted escape led to lockdowns at multiple Noble Public Schools campuses as a precautionary measure.
Lt. Foster stated that the fourth suspect was last seen wearing a ski mask, and authorities initially believed he was armed. During the search, however, ammunition was discovered along the suspect’s fleeing route, leading law enforcement to suspect that he was no longer in possession of a firearm.
“We do know who this person is based on the three people in the vehicle. Norman PD had contact with him earlier yesterday, so they are familiar with his identity and appearance,” Foster explained.
As law enforcement continued to track the suspect’s movements, officers conducted door-to-door searches in nearby residential areas to ensure public safety.
“The public is safe. However, if you see or hear anything suspicious, please call 911 immediately,” Foster advised.
By 3:30 p.m., law enforcement successfully took the suspect into custody in an area east of Jenkins Avenue and Stinson Street. OHP later confirmed that the individual had active warrants across multiple counties.
Although officers initially broadcasted warnings that the suspect was potentially armed, Foster stated that when taken into custody, he was unarmed. However, authorities could not definitively confirm whether he had been armed at any point during the pursuit.
“He’s a danger to the public, which is why so many resources were deployed for this operation,” Foster emphasized.
The arrest involved a coordinated effort among multiple law enforcement agencies, including:
- Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP)
- Norman Police Department (NPD)
- Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office
“This operation highlights the strength of interagency collaboration, ensuring public safety through the efficient deployment of officers, specialized equipment, and other critical resources,” Foster stated, commending all departments involved.
According to an NPD social media alert, the suspect was described as:
- Light-skinned male
- 5’11”, 165 pounds
- Dark hair
- Last seen wearing all black with white tennis shoes
Although the suspect is now in custody, the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any additional information that may assist law enforcement.
While OU Police Department (OUPD) assisted in the response efforts, officials clarified that the situation was handled primarily by external law enforcement agencies. The university’s emergency alert system (RAVE) was activated due to the proximity of the incident to campus, ensuring that students and faculty were informed in real-time.
Further updates will be provided as new details emerge. Authorities encourage anyone with relevant information to contact Norman Police Department or Oklahoma Highway Patrol immediately.