FARGO, N.D. — The city of Fargo is reeling after two separate shootings late Sunday night claimed the lives of two young men in incidents that occurred just 30 minutes apart. Police are now investigating whether the killings are connected.
The victims have been identified as 19-year-old Azeem Holmes and 20-year-old Elijah Hughes, both residents of Fargo.
Downtown Chaos: 19-Year-Old Azeem Holmes Killed on Broadway North
The first shooting was reported at approximately 10:30 p.m. in the 50 block of Broadway North, a busy stretch of downtown Fargo known for restaurants, bars, and pedestrian traffic.
According to the Fargo Police Department, officers arrived on scene to find Azeem Holmes suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders rendered aid, but Holmes was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities say multiple 911 calls came in after the sound of gunfire sent bystanders fleeing. Witnesses told investigators they saw several individuals running from the scene, and security footage from surrounding buildings is now being reviewed.
“We heard the shots and then people just started running,” said a witness who asked to remain anonymous. “It was terrifying.”
Second Shooting: Elijah Hughes Gunned Down in South Fargo
Just as officers were securing the first crime scene, a second call came in. Around 11:00 p.m., police responded to reports of another shooting in the 4700 block of 16th Avenue South, in a residential area near apartment complexes and commercial buildings.
Upon arrival, officers discovered 20-year-old Elijah Hughes with serious gunshot injuries. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Police say the proximity in time and location of the two shootings raises the possibility that they are related, although no motive or suspect information has been made public.
No Arrests Made — Police Seeking Public’s Help
The Fargo Police Department confirmed Monday morning that no arrests have been made and that both cases are being investigated as separate but potentially connected homicides.
Investigators are asking anyone with information, video surveillance, or who may have witnessed either incident to contact authorities immediately.
“These are two young lives lost in a very short span of time,” said Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski. “We are treating these cases with the utmost urgency and need the public’s assistance to move the investigation forward.”
Community in Mourning
Family members, friends, and community leaders gathered Monday to grieve the tragic loss. Tributes poured in on social media, where both Holmes and Hughes were remembered as respectful, loyal, and full of potential.
Holmes, a recent high school graduate, was passionate about music and had dreams of pursuing a career in audio engineering. Hughes, known for his quiet strength and strong faith, worked locally while helping support his younger siblings.
“We’re heartbroken,” said a close friend of the Hughes family. “Elijah was always looking out for others. He didn’t deserve this.”
Local advocacy groups and city officials are calling for unity, support for the grieving families, and a renewed push for community safety.
How to Help
Anyone with information about either incident is urged to contact the Fargo Police Department at (701) 235-4493. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Fargo-Moorhead at (701) 241-5777.
Incident Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim #1 | Azeem Holmes, 19 |
| Location | 50 block of Broadway North |
| Time | 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 4, 2025 |
| Victim #2 | Elijah Hughes, 20 |
| Location | 4700 block of 16th Avenue South |
| Time | 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 4, 2025 |
| Suspects | None in custody |
| Status | Investigation ongoing |
This is a developing story. Stay with The Chronicle for the latest updates on this heartbreaking case.