FBI arrests 18-year-old in Richfield after alleged plot to attack Mall of America

Key points

• Mohamud was arrested on October 6, 2026, in Richfield, Minnesota, after purchasing a Norinco AK-47 and ammunition from an undercover agent.
• Federal prosecutors allege he pledged allegiance to ISIS and planned to attack the Mall of America because it is owned by Jewish individuals.
• The suspect targeted the October 24 Hmong Arts Celebration, stating he wanted to kill 30 to 60 people during the event.
• FBI agents attempted to interview Mohamud’s parents in May 2025 after detecting signs of radicalization, but the parents refused to cooperate.
• Mohamud’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 19, 2026, in St. Paul.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of domestic terrorism plots in the United States, including a similar case in Pennsylvania in September 2026 involving a man charged with obtaining a rifle for an ISIS-inspired attack. In Minnesota, counterterrorism experts note that the Mall of America is a known target due to its high foot traffic and proximity to transit hubs. Previous cases in the state involved Somali Americans plotting to join foreign terror groups, highlighting ongoing concerns about radicalization in the region.

How outlets are covering it

CBS News and 5 Eyewitness News emphasize the FBI’s long-term surveillance, noting that agents monitored Mohamud’s communications for nearly two years. FOX 9 highlights the specific details of the arrest, focusing on the controlled purchase of the weapon. All three outlets agree on the core facts but differ in emphasis: CBS and 5 Eyewitness focus on the parents’ refusal to cooperate and the broader message to families, while FOX 9 details the timeline of the investigation and the specific charges. The Mall of America issued a statement expressing gratitude to law enforcement and reaffirming its security measures, while the Hmong Arts Celebration organizer expressed concern but urged the community to continue supporting cultural events.

Why it matters

The case underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism in the United States, particularly targeting high-profile public venues. It highlights the importance of early intervention and community cooperation in preventing attacks. The incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures at major public spaces and the role of social media in radicalization.

What to watch

Mohamud is scheduled to appear in federal court on October 19, 2026. The Mall of America is expected to review its security protocols in the coming days to ensure no gaps were missed in identifying the threat earlier. The FBI will continue to monitor potential threats and engage with communities to prevent further radicalization.