Crime
Maine Mall shooting suspect identified as 20-year-old Ahmed Basheer Awad
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Authorities have identified the suspect in the Maine Mall shooting that occurred on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. The South Portland Police Department (SPPD) announced that they are actively searching for Ahmed Basheer Awad, a 20-year-old resident of Westbrook.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Elevated Aggravated Assault, a Class A felony, with additional charges anticipated as the investigation progresses.
The shooting took place at approximately 4 p.m. in the food court area of the Maine Mall. Witnesses reported hearing two gunshots coming from the bathroom within the food court. The commotion led to panic and chaos, with mall patrons—including families with young children— fleeing for safety.
Following the shooting, surveillance footage captured the suspect, Ahmed Basheer Awad, leaving the mall through the food court entrance.
SPPD has confirmed that one person was shot and later underwent surgery. The victim is expected to survive. Police officials have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat; however, they urge anyone who sees the suspect to immediately contact law enforcement.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and reviewing surveillance footage from the mall to gather additional evidence.
Police urge anyone with information regarding Ahmed Basheer Awad’s whereabouts or details related to the shooting to contact:
- Detective Lieutenant Christopher Todd at 207-799-5511 Ext. 7448 (christo@southportland.gov)
- Detective Jeff Levesque at 207-799-5511 Ext. 7435 (jeffle@southportland.gov)
- Anonymous tips can be submitted at 207-347-4100
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are committed to ensuring public safety and bringing the suspect into custody. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Crime
Celeste Gusman, 66, Dies After Stabbing at Kalihi Business in Honolulu; Police Investigate as Homicide
HONOLULU, Hawaii — A 66-year-old woman has died following a stabbing at a business in Honolulu’s Kalihi neighborhood, leaving her family, friends, and the local community grieving a tragic loss.
The victim was identified as Celeste Gusman, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Officers responded to a business in the 2300 block of North School Street at approximately 3:20 p.m. Wednesday after receiving a report of a stabbing.
When officers arrived, they found Gusman suffering from a stab wound. Emergency medical personnel quickly began providing advanced lifesaving treatment at the scene before transporting her to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, Gusman later succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities also reported that another woman, who is in her 60s, sustained minor injuries during the incident. According to the information released, she was injured in a fall amid the disturbance and was transported to a hospital in stable condition.
No further details about the circumstances surrounding the second woman’s injuries have been provided.
Following the incident, police initially arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of second-degree attempted murder. After Gusman died from her injuries, authorities reclassified the case as a murder investigation.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the stabbing. Police have not yet released information about what may have triggered the incident or whether the suspect knew Gusman.
The suspect’s arrest and the ongoing investigation do not establish guilt. Further details are expected as authorities continue gathering evidence and determining the events that led to the fatal attack.
The death of Celeste Gusman at 66 has brought sadness to those affected by this incident. A place of business in a familiar neighborhood became the scene of a tragedy, and loved ones are now facing the difficult reality of losing someone important to them.
While many questions remain unanswered, the loss of life has deeply affected the community. Friends, relatives, and neighbors are left remembering Gusman and hoping that the investigation will bring clarity about what happened.
Please keep Celeste Gusman’s family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time. The injured woman and everyone affected by the incident also deserve support as they recover.
May Celeste Gusman rest in peace. May her loved ones find comfort, strength, and healing in the days ahead.