OAKDALE, Minn. (WCCO) — A 34-year-old Oakdale man has been charged in the deadly shooting where three people were shot, including a 9-year-old boy, who was killed, according to the Oakdale Police.
On Monday night at 6:10 p.m., police responded to a report of shots fired near the 6900 block of 7th Street North. Early reports indicated a man was shooting at passing vehicles near 7th and Hadley.
During the shootings, 9-year-old Devin Joseph Aryal of Oakdale was struck by gunfire while he rode in a minivan with his mother. Devin’s mother drove to a nearby Rainbow Foods parking lot and called for help, but he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at Regions Hospital shortly after his arrival.
Devin’s mother was shot in the arm. She has since been treated and released.
Additionally, a 68-year-old Oakdale woman, who was in a different vehicle, was also hit by gunfire. Police say that at last report, she was undergoing surgery at Regions Hospital for multiple gunshot wounds.
The suspected shooter, identified by police at Nhan Lap Tran, fled from the area but was later arrested without incident by Washington County Deputies in the 400 block of Hale Avenue. A firearm was recovered at the arrest scene.
Police say investigators interviewed Tran and at this point have no reason to believe there are other suspects at large or that this is anything other than a random shooting.
Tran, who is in custody at the Washington County Jail, now faces second-degree murder and felony assault charges.
An investigation is ongoing.
A representative for the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District told WCCO Tuesday morning that the victim is a fourth grade boy who attended Oakdale Elementary School. School officials said a crisis team and extra staff will be at the school Tuesday to provide any help needed to students and staff.
“Devin’s parents and immediate family members are obviously dealing with a tremendous tragedy and while they certainly appreciate your compassionate support and condolences, we would ask that you respect their privacy during this period of unspeakable loss,” said Oakdale Police Community Affairs Officer Michelle Stark.
A memorial fund has been set up in Devin Aryal’s name. Donations can be made at the US Bank in Oakdale off of 10th Street.
A vigil has been planned for Tuesday night at Holy Cross Lutheran Church.
