A shocking incident from Minnesota has left a teenage boy seriously injured after a man allegedly shot him over a personal grudge linked to a past tragedy. The accused, a 61-year-old man, reportedly acted out of anger over a fire that had earlier taken his own son’s life. The case has raised serious concerns about how unresolved grief and blame can lead to dangerous actions.
What Happened in Minnesota?
The incident took place in St. Paul, Minnesota, when police received a call about a shooting at around 3:45 p.m. Officers reached the location and found a 17-year-old boy sitting in a car with a gunshot wound to his chest. The bullet had passed through his body, causing serious internal injuries.
The boy was in extreme pain and told police that an “old man” shot him, even though he did not know him personally. Doctors later confirmed that the bullet damaged his liver and lung and broke some ribs. Thankfully, he is expected to survive, but he will need to stay in the hospital for at least two weeks.
Who Is the Accused?
The suspect, identified as Gyaw Way, is 61 years old. He has been charged with first-degree assault causing great bodily harm. According to police reports, he was found carrying a bag with 9 mm ammunition at the time of his arrest.
Authorities also said that after the shooting, Way went back inside the house and lay down on the couch, behaving as if nothing serious had happened. This calm behaviour after such a violent act has shocked many people.
How Did the Incident Unfold?
Police believe that the suspect planned the meeting in advance. He allegedly called the victim’s father and asked him to come over, saying he would repay a debt.
When the father and his teenage son arrived, they sat inside their car. At that moment, Way entered the vehicle and allegedly shot the boy without warning. People inside the house heard the gunshot soon after.
After the incident:
- Way returned to the house
- His 26-year-old son allegedly helped hide the gun in the basement
- Way appeared intoxicated
- He reportedly questioned why police were called and said he didn’t care about going to jail
The Motive Behind the Attack
The reason behind the shooting appears to be a personal grudge. Way reportedly blamed the victim’s father for a fire that happened in December last year. That fire killed Way’s own son.
However, reports suggest that the fire was accidental and started near a space heater. At the time of the fire, Way was not even in the country.
Despite this, he seems to have held onto the belief that the victim’s father was responsible. This anger may have led to the violent act.
Relationship Between the Families
Interestingly, the accused and the victim’s family were not strangers. The victim’s father, who has an amputated leg, was being cared for by Way.
Both families were living in the same house after the fire incident. This makes the situation even more tragic, as it shows how close relationships can turn dangerous when trust breaks down.
Current Legal Status
Gyaw Way is currently in custody at the Ramsey County Jail. His bail has been set at $200,000. His next court hearing is scheduled for May 13.
If found guilty, he could face serious punishment under the law due to the severity of the injuries caused.
