A routine shoplifting arrest in Mankato, Minnesota, has uncovered a potentially devastating terrorist plot that could have resulted in mass casualties. The case underscores the critical role that vigilant retail employees and local law enforcement play in identifying and preventing threats before they escalate into violence. Shoplifting Incident Turns into Major Investigation What started as a shoplifting arrest at a sporting goods store in Mankato turned into a much larger investigation when 24-year-old Mohamed Adan Mohamed was apprehended for stealing over $2,000 worth of tactical gear. Store employees grew suspicious of Mohamed’s behavior as he wore an oversized jacket, medical mask, and hat while selecting expensive items without checking the prices. After fleeing the scene in a minivan without license plates, Mohamed nearly hit a person attempting a citizen’s arrest in the parking lot. Authorities later discovered a shopping list left behind by Mohamed at the store. The list, titled “Survival Gear List with Alternative,” included items such as ammunition magazines, body armor, knives, and pepper spray, raising immediate concerns. Serious Threats and Alarming Discoveries Following the arrest, police linked Mohamed to an earlier investigation involving disturbing social media posts that featured him pointing guns at the camera and making anti-American and anti-Israeli comments. Authorities identified the minivan used in the shoplifting incident and traced it back to Mohamed’s address. A search of his residence revealed an assault rifle matching the one shown in his social media posts, as well as two 3D-printed handguns. Law enforcement officials noted “strong indicators” that Mohamed was preparing to carry out a mass casualty event within the next 24 hours. This discovery prompted a swift response to prevent what could have been a horrific attack. Charges: ‘Strong indicators’ Mankato shoplifter was ‘preparing to conduct some sort of attack’ Mohamed Adan Mohamed was arrested last week; a BCA agent said "there were strong indicators that Mohamed was preparing to conduct some sort of attack (Mass Casualty Event) in the next… pic.twitter.com/7HsDMInncP — Alpha News (@AlphaNewsMN) April 23, 2025 Previous Police Interaction Raises Questions While the investigation has led to the discovery of a serious threat, questions remain about why Mohamed was initially allowed to go free after a previous interaction with law enforcement. According to St. Peter Police Chief Matt Grochow, officers had met with Mohamed prior to the shoplifting incident. During that encounter, Mohamed was described as “appropriate” and not aggressive. At the time, authorities believed he was not a threat to the community, as he appeared safe and stable. MASS CASUALTY EVENT THWARTED in MN Mohamed Adan Mohamed was charged after stealing over $2,000 worth of firearm magazines and making threats online. Officials say that Mohamed was planning to carry out a "Mass Casualty Event.” He reportedly made posts such as… pic.twitter.com/voFkq7fxbW — Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) April 23, 2025 However, the situation changed dramatically after the shoplifting arrest, when it became clear that Mohamed had been planning something much more dangerous. Mental Health Struggles and Legal Consequences Neighbors and former classmates of Mohamed have expressed shock at the severity of the charges, noting his history of mental health struggles. A neighbor described Mohamed as having “a very beautiful heart,” though acknowledging that he was “not mentally, physically there right now.” Mohamed now faces felony theft and threats of violence charges, each carrying up to five years in prison. A court has issued an extreme risk protection order, prohibiting him from possessing firearms for one year. His bail is set at $500,000, and he remains in custody with a court appearance scheduled for May. This case highlights how routine law enforcement activities—such as a shoplifting arrest—can sometimes uncover much deeper threats to public safety. It serves as a reminder that the vigilance of both retail employees and law enforcement officers is crucial in preventing potential disasters. Sources: Minnesota shoplifting bust narrowly thwarts potential mass-shooting planned by suspect: ‘Deathtoamerikka’ ‘Mass casualty event’ stopped by St. Peter Police after shoplifting arrest | FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul