Man faces charges after shooting Black neighbor over tree dispute [VIDEO]
Minneapolis Man Arrested for Racially Charged Shooting of Black Neighbor
In a case that has highlighted ongoing racial and systemic issues within Minneapolis, 54-year-old John Herbert Sawchak is facing charges after allegedly shooting his Black neighbor, Davis Moturi, following months of escalating tension and racially charged threats. The incident has stirred public outrage, with Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) facing scrutiny for its handling of the case.
Tensions Escalate Leading to the Shooting of Davis Moturi
The relationship between Sawchak and Moturi had been tense since Moturi and his family moved into their home in Minneapolis. What started as a dispute over a shared tree on the property line quickly took a darker turn, with Sawchak allegedly subjecting Moturi to continuous racial harassment. According to police records, Sawchak repeatedly used racial slurs and threats. Thus, telling Moturi, “touch my tree again, and I will kill you.” These threats spanned nearly a year, including an incident on March 1, 2024, where Sawchak allegedly told Moturi that he would “put him in the hospital.”
Despite multiple complaints to the police by Moturi, Sawchak’s alleged threats were left unaddressed by authorities. Thus, leading to heightened concerns from Moturi and his family about their safety. As the complaint documented, police inaction allowed Sawchak’s threats to persist unchecked.
The Day of the Shooting: October 23, 2024
The conflict reached a violent peak on October 23, 2024. According to reports, Moturi was working on the shared tree, pruning branches, when Sawchak allegedly fired a shot that struck Moturi. The bullet left Moturi with serious injuries, including a fractured spine, broken ribs, and a concussion. After being rushed to the hospital, doctors discovered the bullet lodged near Moturi’s spine. As a result, causing potentially life-altering damage.
Moturi’s wife reported to authorities that she was confident Sawchak was the shooter, saying that Sawchak had “almost certainly” targeted her husband in retaliation over the tree.
Police Delayed in Arresting Sawchak Despite Serious Charges
In the aftermath of the shooting, Minneapolis police faced mounting criticism for not arresting Sawchak immediately, despite having received numerous complaints about his escalating threats. Local officials, including members of the Minneapolis City Council and Mayor Jacob Frey, publicly condemned the police department’s failure to act earlier. Thus, emphasizing the need for accountability. Council members sent a letter to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office questioning why Sawchak remained free after such serious allegations.
According to the council’s letter, MPD cited “officer safety” concerns as the reason for delaying Sawchak’s arrest, leading many to question the department’s priorities. Minneapolis City Council members expressed frustration, stating, “MPD still has not arrested the suspect despite charges for Attempted Murder, 1st Degree Assault, Stalking, and Harassment.” The delay not only raised questions about officer safety protocols but also about the perceived disparity in how MPD handles cases involving Black victims.
Community Leaders Call for Accountability
Minnesota Senator Omar Fateh was one of several public figures to call out MPD for failing to protect Moturi. Senator Fateh demanded an independent investigation into MPD’s handling of the case, describing it as “a sobering reminder of the racial inequities that persist in our policing system.” Fateh took to social media, stating that this failure underscores a deeper issue with how Black residents are treated in Minneapolis.
The community’s response reflects a broader sense of frustration with the justice system. Many community members and advocates argue that had the roles been reversed, the response from MPD would likely have been swift and decisive. The perceived racial bias in this case has reignited conversations around police reform and accountability.
Arrest and Surrender: Five Days Later
After days of negotiations and a tense standoff, Minneapolis police finally arrested Sawchak on October 28. SWAT teams were reportedly involved as Sawchak initially refused to surrender. It wasn’t until just before 1:30 a.m. on October 28 that he ultimately exited his home and surrendered peacefully.
At a news conference, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara acknowledged the department’s failure in handling the case, stating, “We failed this victim. He should not have been shot.” O’Hara expressed regret for the delay and praised officers for achieving a peaceful resolution. However, his remarks drew mixed reactions, with many questioning why it took days for MPD to act decisively in a case involving attempted murder charges.
MPD’s Response to Criticism
In response to the backlash, Chief O’Hara attempted to address the department’s decisions, saying that “extensive work” went into bringing Sawchak into custody. O’Hara explained that officers had made multiple attempts to de-escalate the situation peacefully. Despite this, his admission that MPD “failed” Moturi further fueled criticism.
Mayor Jacob Frey also addressed the incident, defending MPD’s actions and accusing critics of “politicizing” the work of the police department. Frey argued that Minneapolis police are doing their best in an under-resourced and under-staffed environment. “Our officers are working tirelessly to keep the city safe,” he said, highlighting that the case represents broader challenges facing law enforcement in Minneapolis.
Racial Implications and Systemic Concerns
The case involving Sawchak and Moturi has become emblematic of perceived racial disparities within the Minneapolis justice system. Community members argue that the delayed response highlights a longstanding issue of racial inequity in law enforcement practices. Advocates and officials alike stress that the system must prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens, regardless of race.
For Moturi and his family, the incident has underscored the vulnerability that Black residents feel in the face of racial hostility. Moturi, who survived the shooting, expressed frustration not only with his attacker but with the police, who he feels should have acted sooner to protect him. His statement, “How do I get my reputation back?” reflects the psychological toll that this case has had on him and his family.
The Road Ahead: Calls for Justice and Police Reform
The charges against Sawchak—attempted murder, first-degree assault, stalking, and harassment—mark a critical step toward justice for Moturi. Yet, this case raises broader questions about MPD’s policies, training, and responsiveness to complaints from Black residents. Senator Fateh’s call for an independent investigation underscores the community’s desire for transparency and reform within MPD.
Moturi’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains in addressing systemic biases within law enforcement. As Minneapolis continues to grapple with its history of police-related controversies, this case stands as a testament to the ongoing need for accountability, justice, and equitable treatment for all residents.