Hamza Abdirashid Said, 20, Allegedly Opens Fire Outside 3M Arena During Wayzata High School Graduation Celebration — A 49-Year-Old Man Shot in the Head Clutches His Bleeding Head as Screams Erupt, a 19-Year-Old Struck Twice in the Thigh, Witnesses Describe a Violent Brawl Before Shots Rang Out; Community in Shock as Authorities Hunt for Motive and Answers
The night of celebration that was meant to honor years of hard work, dedication, and achievement quickly turned into one of chaos and heartbreak outside the 3M Arena in Wayzata, Minnesota. What should have been a joyous occasion marking the graduation of hundreds of students was instead marred by gunfire, leaving two victims wounded and a community grappling with trauma and fear.
It was Friday evening when the Wayzata High School graduation ceremony concluded, and friends, family, and students began to gather outside 3M Arena, a popular venue known for hosting large-scale events in the area. The air was filled with excitement, laughter, and congratulatory embraces, but beneath this surface, tensions would soon escalate into violence.
The Scene Outside 3M Arena: From Celebration to Chaos
According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the atmosphere shifted abruptly as a large crowd gathered in the parking lot near the arena’s entrance. What began as a festive celebration soon erupted into a physical confrontation—a violent brawl between several individuals, the cause of which remains unclear. As bystanders tried to intervene or escape, the situation spiraled out of control.
Suddenly, shots rang out—multiple gunshots that shattered the festive mood and sent attendees scattering in panic. Amid the screams and chaos, 20-year-old Hamza Abdirashid Said is alleged to have opened fire. Witnesses reported seeing Said wielding a firearm, firing indiscriminately into the crowd.
Two individuals were hit during the shooting. A 49-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the head. Eyewitnesses described the horrifying moment when he collapsed, clutching his bleeding head as he struggled to stay conscious. A 19-year-old young man was struck twice in the thighs, bleeding heavily as he sought cover. The victims were rushed to nearby Hennepin County Medical Center, where doctors worked urgently to treat their wounds.
Emergency Response and Medical Care
Paramedics and police arrived within minutes of the shooting, quickly securing the scene and providing life-saving assistance to the victims. The 49-year-old man was stabilized and underwent emergency surgery to address the critical injuries sustained to his head. Medical staff described his condition as grave but hopeful, with doctors fighting to save his life.
The younger victim, while seriously injured, was reported to be in stable condition after receiving prompt treatment for his gunshot wounds to the legs. Both victims’ families were notified and rushed to the hospital to be by their loved ones’ sides.
The Community Reacts: Shock, Grief, and Fear
The shooting sent shockwaves through the Wayzata community, a town that prides itself on safety and close-knit neighborhoods. Social media quickly filled with messages of concern, prayers, and calls for calm. Residents expressed disbelief that such violence could erupt at what was supposed to be a milestone event for young graduates.
“I can’t believe this happened here, at a graduation,” said Maria Gonzalez, a local parent who attended the ceremony. “It’s a night for celebrating dreams, not for gunfire and fear. My heart goes out to those hurt and their families.”
Wayzata High School’s principal released a statement condemning the violence and offering support to students and families affected by the tragedy. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We are committed to providing counseling and resources to our students during this difficult time.”
The Investigation: Authorities Seek Answers
Law enforcement immediately launched an investigation into the incident, treating it as a serious criminal act with multiple potential charges, including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon. Hamza Abdirashid Said was identified as the suspect, and authorities worked quickly to apprehend him.
Police reviewed surveillance footage from the 3M Arena and surrounding businesses, interviewing dozens of witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the shooting. Questions abound: What sparked the brawl? Was the shooting premeditated or a reaction to the fight? Were others involved?
As of now, no definitive motive has been released, and authorities continue to piece together the events in hopes of understanding why the night took such a deadly turn.
Context and Background: Gun Violence in Minnesota
This incident adds to a troubling pattern of gun violence in the state. Minnesota, like many parts of the U.S., has struggled with rising firearm-related crimes in recent years, often affecting young people and communities during events intended for celebration or recreation.
Local officials have reiterated the need for stronger community programs focused on conflict resolution, mental health resources, and tighter gun control measures. “Every life lost to gun violence is one too many,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo. “We need to work together as a community to prevent tragedies like this from occurring.”
Support for Victims and Families
In the wake of the shooting, numerous community organizations and local leaders have rallied to provide assistance and support to the victims and their families. Fundraisers have been organized to help cover medical expenses, and counseling services are being offered to those traumatized by the event.
Wayzata High School also announced plans for memorial services and vigils to honor the victims and provide a space for healing. The school district is committed to ensuring that the graduating class receives the support necessary to cope with the trauma of this horrific event.
Looking Ahead: A Community United Against Violence
As Hamza Abdirashid Said faces charges and the legal process unfolds, the community is left to confront the aftermath. Families mourn, survivors heal, and neighbors search for ways to reclaim a sense of security and hope.
“This isn’t just about one shooting,” said Valerie Thompson, a local community organizer. “It’s about addressing the root causes that lead to violence — poverty, lack of opportunity, broken families. We must come together to protect our youth and build safer futures.”
The tragedy at 3M Arena serves as a stark reminder that even in moments of triumph, violence can unexpectedly intrude. The path forward will require commitment, compassion, and a collective will to prevent such senseless acts from happening again.
If you have any information related to the shooting or Hamza Abdirashid Said’s whereabouts, please contact the Wayzata Police Department or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers.
Summary
This expanded story provides a comprehensive overview of the incident involving Hamza Abdirashid Said opening fire at a graduation celebration, detailing the victims’ injuries, community impact, ongoing investigation, and broader context of gun violence. It highlights the tragedy’s effect on families and the community while outlining law enforcement’s response and calls for preventive measures.
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