Dale Henry Spry And Muse Abdi Afrah Obituary, MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Dale Henry Spry, 63, was killed Wednesday afternoon in a shooting at a Minneapolis apartment complex that also claimed the life of another resident and left several people, including police officers, wounded. Authorities identified Spry as one of two locals who lost his life during the violence at Shoreline Plaza, formerly known as Loring Towers.
Investigators stated the suspected gunman, 35-year-old Carlton Johnson II, was living at the apartment complex while facing eviction proceedings. Officials noted the violence started during a custody exchange involving Johnson and his former partner, the mother of his daughter. The woman was reportedly shot but survived and was able to escape before officers arrived and supplied emergency medical assistance.
According to Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans, Johnson later entered the apartment building and allegedly shot two employees, one of whom was wounded at close range but survived. Agencies noted Johnson then went to the ninth floor, where his apartment was located, and allegedly shot Spry and 61-year-old Muse Abdi Afrah.
Police received a 911 call at approximately 4:36 p.m. Wednesday reporting that someone had been shot at the complex. Officers responding to the ninth floor encountered a haze that severely limited visibility. Investigators are examining the cause of the haze, which authorities noted may have resulted from a fire extinguisher being struck by gunfire.
The confrontation ultimately ended when Minneapolis police Officer Liban Mohamed Ibrahim, who joined the department in 2024, shot and killed Johnson. Officers Joseph Michnowski and Yahye Ahmed were also shot and hurt during the action taken, while Officer Ernest Boateng was struck by glass. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is separately investigating the police-involved shooting.
Spry was remembered by relatives and public members as a respected presence in Minneapolis. His nephew, Kendall Coleman, said Spry brought happiness to family gatherings and community events and was an notable member of both the Native American public and North Minneapolis. Spry was also a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and later worked as a contractor.
Spry’s former partner, Vicki Parsons, said she was shocked by his loss and expressed grief over the circumstances. His death has left relatives, friends and members of the communities with which he was connected mourning a man remembered for his service and presence in the lives of those around him.
Authorities have not released a definitive motive for the shooting. Investigators proceed to examine the reported custody dispute, Johnson’s history at the apartment complex, the shootings of community members and employees, and the subsequent confrontation with police. As the investigation continues, condolences remain with Spry’s relatives, friends and all those affected by the violence.
