October 29 2025, 08:15 
A suspect is in custody after a gay-owned ice cream shop was attacked twice by Molotov cocktails in 24 hours.
While police have not confirmed a motive, Fletcher’s Ice Cream and Cafe in Minneapolis has a massive Pride flag hanging above its door and is known in the community for its inclusive environment. It is also on the same block as the home of Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor party, though it’s unclear whether the suspect knew that.
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“When it’s your neighborhood, when it’s your block, it hits different,” Frey told Fox 9.
The suspect, 30-year-old Firomsa Ahmed Umar, allegedly threw one Molotov cocktail through the window of the shop on the evening of October 19 and the afternoon of October 20. The shop was closed during both incidents. Fletcher told KTTC that employees had only left six minutes before the first attack took place, which led to some chairs catching fire and members of the neighboring business putting it out.
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The second time, the wick fell out, and the flames did not reach the store.
@fox9mn A Fridley man faces arson charges after authorities believe he threw a Molotov cocktail-style explosive at an ice cream shop in northeast Minneapolis – twice. Firomsa Ahmed Umar, 30, is charged with two counts of first-degree arson after alleged attacks that occurred on Oct. 19 and 20. According to multiple witnesses, Umar was seen lighting, then throwing, the explosive devices, then fleeing the scene in a Honda Odyssey. Charges state that observers were able to record his license plate. Neighbors in northeast Minneapolis are planning a rally to support Fletcher’s Ice Cream on Thursday evening, demonstrating the community’s commitment to standing by the beloved ice cream shop.
♬ original sound – FOX 9 | KMSP – FOX 9 | KMSP
But owner Jason Fletcher won’t be scared off, especially considering the outpouring of support he has seen from the community. “I believe in my heart that Minneapolis is a really amazing place to be,” he said. “I believe that this city has my heart, and I am so so grateful for all of this support.”
Fletcher said the attacks have given him “an opportunity to spread peace and love.”
“I’m not going to be in a closet, and I don’t think any queer-owned business should be. I think it’s really important we stand up for ourselves.”
Umar has been charged with two counts of first-degree
City Council Member Jason Chavez condemned the attack on social media. “At a time when marginalized communities are being even more targeted than has always been the case, it is important that we as a city condemn this behavior,” Chavez wrote. “We must also reaffirm our commitment to equality and the safety of our LGBTQIA+ neighbors.”
Until a motive is confirmed, Fletcher told KTTC he is not drawing any conclusions.
“The obvious answer is, oh, our flag, but I would like to think that it’s not. I would like to think that people appreciate the fact that we support everybody.”
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