In January 2024, a tragic shooting incident took place in a Costco parking lot in Tukwila, Washington, where 67-year-old Yuam Ming lost her life. The shooting was part of a robbery attempt, and a 20-year-old man, Salman Haji, was allegedly involved.
He has since been apprehended and deported from Kenya after evading arrest. Federal prosecutors have confirmed that Haji is now in U.S. custody, facing serious charges for his alleged role in the crime.
The Shooting Incident
The unfortunate event occurred when Yuam Ming and her sister were in the Costco parking lot, loading groceries into their car. As they were finishing up, Haji and another suspect, Ilyiss Abdi, reportedly attacked them in an attempt to steal Ming’s purse.
During the struggle, Haji allegedly shot Ming while she was trying to protect her sister. The incident was captured on surveillance footage from the Costco, showing the two suspects attacking the victims.
Before heading to the Costco parking lot, surveillance footage also showed Haji and Abdi in a nearby grocery store, appearing to plan their attack. It was later revealed that they had stolen a vehicle earlier that day in a separate carjacking incident.
The Carjacking
The carjacking took place earlier on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle. Haji is said to have followed a woman in her car, then rear-ended her to force her to stop.
While attempting to get her insurance details, Haji allegedly threatened her with a gun, demanding her car keys and money. He then drove off in the woman’s Porsche Cayenne, which would later be used in the crime at Costco.
Haji’s Escape to Kenya
Following the shooting, Haji managed to flee the country and made his way to Kenya, evading arrest. His whereabouts remained unknown for some time, but an investigation led to his eventual capture. The U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed that he was deported from Kenya and taken into FBI custody.
Legal Action and Charges
Salman Haji was indicted in June 2024 on charges of murder and attempted robbery. Federal prosecutors have made it clear that he will be held accountable for his alleged actions.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman emphasized the need for justice in this case, reaffirming that Haji’s apprehension is an important step in holding him responsible for the tragic death of Yuam Ming.
Salman Haji’s deportation and arrest mark a significant development in the case surrounding the tragic death of Yuam Ming. While the investigation continues, his apprehension ensures that he will face the consequences of his alleged actions.
The case highlights the importance of justice, even when suspects attempt to flee the country, and serves as a reminder of the impact violent crimes have on innocent victims.
