Tragic Shooting in Horace Claims Life of 23-Year-Old Sakeena Khaadi
FARGO, N.D. — The Cass County community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 23-year-old Sakeena Khaadi, whose life ended far too soon following a tragic shooting on Wednesday morning, November 5, 2025, in Horace, North Dakota. Authorities confirmed her identity on Thursday during a press conference held by Sheriff Jesse Jahner, who described the event as a devastating and senseless act that has left both investigators and residents shaken.
According to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of shots fired shortly after 8:00 a.m. in a residential neighborhood near County Road 17 and 73rd Avenue South. Upon arrival, they discovered a young woman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside a parked vehicle. Despite immediate medical attention from first responders and emergency personnel, Sakeena Khaadi was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities quickly secured the area, closing nearby roads for several hours as detectives gathered evidence and canvassed the neighborhood for witnesses. Law enforcement officials have not yet released full details regarding the shooter or a possible motive but confirmed that the incident appears to be isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Sheriff Jahner noted that investigators are following multiple leads and working with forensic experts to piece together what led to the tragic event.
The sheriff expressed deep sympathy for the victim’s family during the briefing, calling Sakeena’s death “an unimaginable loss for those who loved her and for our entire community.” He urged anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing that even small details could prove critical in helping bring clarity and justice to the case.
Those who knew Sakeena Khaadi describe her as a compassionate, driven young woman with a radiant smile and a deep sense of purpose. Friends recall her as someone who could light up a room with laughter and kindness, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. She was known for her dedication to her work and her unwavering love for her family.
Neighbors in the quiet Horace subdivision expressed their shock, saying that the area is typically peaceful and family-oriented. Many placed flowers and candles near the site where Sakeena’s car had been parked, creating a small memorial in her honor. Messages of sympathy poured in from across Fargo and beyond, with social media filled with tributes remembering her bright spirit and the joy she brought into the lives of others.
Investigators have not publicly confirmed whether Sakeena knew her assailant, though Sheriff Jahner stated that evidence suggests the shooting was not random. The Cass County Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the precise cause and manner of her death as part of the ongoing investigation.
As her loved ones prepare to say goodbye, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist her family with funeral costs and to honor her memory. The campaign quickly gained support, reflecting how deeply Sakeena’s story has touched the Fargo-Moorhead area.
A candlelight vigil is being planned for the weekend at Island Park in Fargo, where friends, coworkers, and family members will gather to celebrate her life and advocate for peace.
In closing his press statement, Sheriff Jahner said, “Sakeena’s passing reminds us all how fragile life is. Our hearts go out to her family. We promise to do everything in our power to find answers and deliver justice for Sakeena.”
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office, along with the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, continues to handle the case with full priority. For now, the community of Horace grieves together—honoring a young woman whose life, though tragically cut short, will be forever remembered for her warmth, compassion, and the love she gave so freely.
Tags: #SakeenaKhaadi #HoraceND #FargoCommunity #CassCountySheriff #JusticeForSakeena #NorthDakotaNews
