Saturday July 8, 2023
Minneapolis (HOL) - Charges have been filed against three individuals, including two adults and one minor, following a series of disturbances related to the misuse of fireworks in Minneapolis and Lake Minnetonka during the July 4th celebrations, according to Police Chief Brian O'Hara. The accused include Maslax O. Dualeh, 21, and Zamir A. Yassin, 18, both of Minneapolis and a 17-year-old minor from Columbia Heights.
Dualeh stands accused of a gross-misdemeanour riot stemming from allegations of throwing a firework from a vehicle at park-goers in Minnehaha Regional Park. Authorities found Roman candles, mortars, and M80-style fireworks in his vehicle. Yassin, charged with second-degree riot involving a dangerous weapon, is alleged to have fired Roman candles at a moving police vehicle. The minor faces charges of second-degree assault involving a dangerous weapon and evasion of police linked to an incident where he reportedly targeted a police vehicle with fireworks.
In total, 16 individuals, five adults and 11 minors, were arrested concerning these incidents. Six of the minors were cited for disorderly conduct and released to their parents, says Police Sgt. Garrett Parten. Four adults were released from jail without charges after being accused of reckless use of fireworks.
The fireworks disturbances unfolded as Independence Day festivities wound down, with one incident involving more than 300 people converging near W. 36th Street and Bde Maka Ska Parkway. Fireworks reportedly struck squad cars, passing vehicles, trees, and bystanders.