A deadly argument over a missing flashlight accessory ended tragically at an Amazon Fulfillment Center in Minnesota. Mohamed A. Hared, 26, has been sentenced to just over 10½ years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder without intent in the death of his co-worker, Ahmed Ibrahim Cariif. Hared received credit for the 700 days he had already spent in custody.
The Shooting Incident
Police responded around 4 a.m. on June 29, 2024, to 911 calls reporting a shooting in the Amazon facility parking lot in Dakota County. Hared reportedly called one of the emergency lines, saying he had “accidentally” shot a co-worker.
Officers found Cariif lying face down between two cars while Hared stood nearby with a gun. A third colleague, who had also called 911, waited inside the facility. Cariif was pronounced dead at the scene.
Argument Over a Missing Flashlight
Hared, Cariif, and the third man were colleagues who carpooled to work. Hared had brought his firearm to work but kept it in the witness’ car. During a break at 1 a.m., Hared noticed a flashlight attachment was missing and accused Cariif and the witness of stealing it, which they denied.
At their next break around 4 a.m., the men agreed to search the car for the flashlight. Hared kept the gun in his waistband while searching. A brief physical fight reportedly broke out when Hared asked for the flashlight back.
What Happened During the Altercation
Hared claimed Cariif advanced on him and tried to attack, and he fired the gun in self-defense. However, witness testimony and security footage contradicted Hared’s claims.
The witness said Hared refused to call security to review surveillance footage and insisted on taking matters into his own hands. During a second altercation, Hared drew the gun. The witness described that after Hared fired the first shot, Cariif yelled, “Don’t shoot me,” and the second shot struck him, causing him to fall.
Security footage showed that Hared threw the first punch in the initial fight and never attempted to retreat despite several opportunities.
Autopsy Findings
An autopsy revealed the bullet entered Cariif’s chest, striking his heart, lung, and aorta, causing his death.
Sentence and Outcome
Mohamed A. Hared pleaded guilty to second-degree murder without intent and received a sentence of just over 10½ years in prison. He was credited for the 700 days he had already served. The case highlights how workplace disputes can quickly escalate into deadly violence when firearms are involved.
