Two charged in deadly Costco robbery, one suspect remains at large

Two suspects, Salman S. Haji and Ilyiss Mohamud Abdi, are charged with first-degree murder and robbery stemming from a violent incident at a Tukwila Costco on January 26, 2024. The duo is accused of robbing a woman at gunpoint of her Porsche SUV before targeting another woman in the Costco parking lot, resulting in the death of Mingyuan Huang. Prosecutors have requested a $5 million bail for each suspect, citing their significant danger to the public. Haji faces additional charges, including attempted eluding of police, while Abdi has a prior felony burglary conviction.

Following the robbery, Haji attempted to rob Mingyong Huang, resulting in a struggle that led to the fatal shooting of her sister. Haji fled the country shortly after the crime, while Abdi was arrested in May. Investigators utilized DNA evidence, fingerprints, and surveillance footage to link the suspects to the crimes. The case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and public safety in the region.