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.
DALLAS, TX – Four students were injured, including two who sustained gunshot wounds, during a shooting incident at Wilmer-Hutchins High School on Tuesday afternoon.
The event marks the second reported shooting at the school in just over a year, prompting renewed concerns over campus safety.
The Dallas Police Department responded to an active shooter call at approximately 1:00 p.m. at the high school, located at 5520 Langdon Road in southeast Dallas.
The school is part of the Dallas Independent School District (DISD).
The exact sequence of events remains under investigation.
Witnesses reported hearing as many as seven gunshots.
Among the gunshot victims was a 17-year-old male student who was struck in the leg.
Graphic accounts from students described scenes of chaos and fear, with one student recalling, “There was a lot of blood on the floor,” while others described hearing screams and scrambling for safety in classrooms and hallways.
Several students immediately called their parents during the ordeal.
According to Dallas Fire-Rescue, four individuals were transported to area hospitals.
Two were confirmed to have suffered gunshot wounds, while the nature of the other two injuries has not yet been disclosed.
Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
Police have not yet released the identity or status of the suspected shooter. However, early indications suggest the suspect may be another student.
The motive for the shooting has not been determined, and authorities continue to search for answers.
As officers worked to secure the campus, students were systematically evacuated.
By 1:35 p.m., evacuation procedures were underway, with some students seen exiting the building with their hands raised for safety protocol.
The school was declared secure at 2:12 p.m., according to DISD.
In coordination with law enforcement, Dallas ISD established a reunification site at Eagles Stadium for parents and guardians to pick up their children.
The district has requested that parents bring photo identification and has confirmed that counselors are on-site to provide emotional support for affected students and staff.
This incident follows a previous shooting at the same high school in 2023, during which a student was shot inside a classroom.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Tuesday’s shooting and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.