Arrest made in back-to-back firebomb attacks on Minneapolis ice cream shop

A 30-year-old man from Fridley faces arson charges after firebombing Fletcher’s Ice Cream and Cafe in Minneapolis on two occasions. The incidents occurred shortly after closing on Sunday and again during the day on Monday, when the shop is typically closed. Owner Jason Fletcher suspects the attacks are linked to a gay Pride flag prominently displayed outside the establishment. Fortunately, no injuries resulted from the firebombs, which damaged the property. Witnesses from a nearby bar helped extinguish the flames during the first incident.

Minneapolis police, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are collecting evidence as part of their investigation. Fletcher mentioned that while the shop has dealt with minor theft and harassment, these firebombings represent a serious escalation. The shop has been a part of the Hennepin Avenue community for three years, having originally opened in 2018.