Mistrial declared in Abukar murder trial

(ABC 6 News) – After a week-long trial and just 18 hours of jury deliberations, a mistrial has been declared in the trial of Muhidin Abukar.

Abukar is charged with 2nd-degree murder with intent in the death of 28-year-old Garad Roble. Abukar pleaded not guilty in April of 2020.

During the trial, the state mentioned that Roble was shot eleven times, 4 times in the head, and 7 times in the body and arms. The state also says Roble’s body was found frozen to the ground with no hat or gloves on.

The jury, made up of eight women and four men, deliberated for 18 hours. During that time they returned to the court to ask clarifying questions as well as review evidence another time.

Prosecutors plan to schedule another trial in the future.

The defense issued a statement to ABC 6 News saying "We expected that Mr. Abukar would be acquitted and allowed to return to his family. He was not involved in the murder. He has spent years in custody waiting for this trial. The Court had no choice but to declare a mistrial because the jury could not reach a verdict. Mr. Abukar should have been acquitted. His day of vindication cannot arrive soon enough."

The outcome was also not the news relatives of the victim wanted to hear.

ABC 6 News spoke to a number of relatives shortly after the trial who were emotional. They say Abukar took away someones nephew, son and brother. They are hoping for justice even if it means another trial.