FBI says it stopped ISIS-inspired Mall of America attack plot
Politics
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
· Updated Oct 7, 2026 18:50
The FBI arrested an 18-year-old Minnesotan it says plotted an ISIS-inspired mass shooting at the Mall of America, seizing him after he bought a rifle and ammunition from an undercover agent.
Why it matters: Prosecutors say the suspect targeted a crowded October 24 community celebration and spoke of killing 30 to 60 people, making it one of the most serious domestic terrorism disruptions of the year.
Data as of DOJ press release and AP reporting October 7, 2026. Charges are allegations; the suspect had not entered a plea and no attorney was known at time of publication.
The FBI arrested Sheikhdoon Abdullahi Mohamud, 18, of Richfield, Minnesota, on October 6 after he paid $600 to an undercover agent posing as an ISIS operative for an AK-47-style rifle and 200 rounds of ammunition. He was charged October 7 with receiving a firearm and ammunition to commit a federal crime of terrorism, and made his initial court appearance the same day.
Prosecutors say Mohamud targeted the October 24 Hmong Arts Celebration at the Mall of America because “it will be a lot of people,” and told investigators he hoped to kill 30 to 60. The criminal complaint says he pledged allegiance to ISIS in a video posted to Discord last month and expressed a desire to emulate attacks including Pulse nightclub. “This was a radicalized young man who needed to be watched,” U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen said. FBI Director Kash Patel said agents stopped him before he could carry out the plan.
Sources
- Man Arrested and Charged for Role in Plotting to Conduct a Mass-Shooting Event in Support of ISIS at the Mall of America · U.S. Department of Justice · 2026-10-07
- FBI foils alleged terrorist attack at Minneapolis's Mall of America · The Hill · 2026-10-07