Minneapolis man found guilty of Dinkytown tobacco shop shooting that killed two

Maleek Jabril Conley, 27, received a mandatory life sentence without parole after a jury convicted him of murder charges stemming from a December 2023 shooting at a Dinkytown tobacco shop. The violent incident left two men, Bryson Lamarr Haskell and Jamartre Michael Sanders, dead and two others injured. The shooting erupted as two groups of customers fought, prompting Conley to enter and fire at least 24 shots inside Royal Cigar Tobacco. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty labeled the act as extreme violence, expressing condolences to the families of the victims. Additionally, Taynard Twon Deshawn Godsey, 27, has been charged with aiding an offender after the fact, although his arrest status remains unclear.

The case underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in urban areas. The conviction is expected to have a lasting impact on community safety discussions. Law enforcement officials aim to address escalating violence through enhanced policing strategies.