Cass County Authorities Identify 23-Year-Old Sakeena Khaadi as Victim in Horace Shooting; Community Mourns Her Tragic Death
FARGO, N.D. — The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim in Wednesday morning’s fatal shooting in Horace as 23-year-old Sakeena Khaadi, a young woman whose promising life was tragically cut short. Sheriff Jesse Jahner publicly confirmed her identity during a Thursday press conference, calling the incident “a heartbreaking loss for the entire community” and urging the public to keep Sakeena’s loved ones in their thoughts during this difficult time.
Deputies were dispatched to a residence in Horace around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered Khaadi suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by emergency responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Jahner said investigators are actively pursuing leads to determine the events leading up to the shooting. While details remain limited, authorities have confirmed that the case is being treated as a homicide investigation. Detectives spent much of Wednesday and Thursday collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage from the area.
“We are working diligently to piece together exactly what happened and to bring justice for Sakeena,” Jahner said. “This is a devastating situation for her family, and our hearts go out to them. No family should ever have to endure such a loss.”
Neighbors in the normally quiet Horace community expressed shock and sadness over the tragedy. Many described hearing sirens early in the morning and later learning of the young woman’s death through local news reports. “This is such a peaceful neighborhood,” said one resident. “We never thought something like this could happen here. It’s truly heartbreaking.”
Friends and family members of Sakeena Khaadi have been sharing tributes on social media, remembering her as a compassionate, ambitious, and loving young woman. “She had a smile that could light up any room,” one close friend wrote. “She was always there for everyone — it’s hard to believe she’s gone.”
Community members and local advocacy groups have come forward to offer support to the Khaadi family, emphasizing the importance of standing together during times of tragedy. Several organizations in the Fargo area are coordinating grief counseling resources and planning a candlelight vigil to honor her memory in the coming days.
As the investigation continues, Sheriff Jahner urged anyone with information about the case to contact the Cass County Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous tip. “Even the smallest detail could be crucial,” he said. “We are committed to finding the truth and ensuring that whoever is responsible is held accountable.”
The loss of Sakeena Khaadi has deeply affected the Fargo–Horace community, reminding residents of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of violence. Her family, now left to mourn an unimaginable loss, is being supported by loved ones who say they will remember her for her warmth, kindness, and determination to make a difference in the world.
As the community grieves, one message rings clear — Sakeena Khaadi will not be forgotten, and her loved ones are determined to see justice served in her name.
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