Fargo Police Officer Fatally Shot, Two Others In Critical Condition

FARGO, North Dakota — A Fargo police officer was killed in a shooting on Friday afternoon, while two other officers and a civilian were left in critical condition, according to authorities. The deceased officer has been identified as 23-year-old Jake Wallin, as confirmed by a news release from the Fargo Police Department. Officers Andrew Dotas and Tyler Hawes sustained gunshot wounds and are currently in critical but stable condition at a local healthcare facility.

The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Mohamad Barakat, was shot by Officer Zachary Robinson during the incident and later died from his injuries at the hospital. Another civilian, a 25-year-old woman, was also injured in the shooting and is currently being treated for serious injuries.

The incident took place near 9th Avenue South and 25th Street South in Fargo. Police Chief Dave Zibolski stated in a news conference that the shooting occurred during an investigation of a routine traffic accident. While investigations are ongoing, Chief Zibolski mentioned that there is currently no known reason for the shooting and that the suspect did not appear to be involved in the collision.

Zibolski described the events as a “heinous and unthinkable act of aggression.” As per standard protocol in Fargo, Officer Zachary Robinson has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into his use of force.

In remembrance of the fallen officer, law enforcement officers held a procession with their squad car lights on along Interstate 94 and through Fargo on Friday evening. Witnesses reported that the shooting occurred following the traffic collision.

Fargo, the most populous city in North Dakota with a population of around 125,990, is located on the state’s eastern border with Minnesota, approximately 190 miles east of the capital city of Bismarck.

This heartbreaking incident has plunged the Fargo community into mourning and has emphasized the dangers that law enforcement officers face in the line of duty. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the motive behind the attack. The loss of a dedicated officer has left a lasting impact on the police department and the entire metro community, as they grapple with the shock and devastation caused by this senseless act of violence.

Efforts are underway to support the families of the affected officers and provide counseling and assistance to law enforcement personnel as they process the trauma of the incident. The shooting serves as a reminder of the risks that officers face while carrying out their duties, as they put their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities.