Suspect Arrested in Ohio for Fatal Brooklyn Park Shooting That Killed 17-Year-Old Girl
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Original Incident: On July 1, 2025, a 17-year-old Zoe Kpanlin, from Elk River, was tragically shot in the 7000 block of Lakeland Avenue North in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, suffering a life-threatening wound. She later died at the hospital—just two days shy of her 18th birthday
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Arrest: On July 18, 2025, detectives from the Brooklyn Park Police Department located and arrested 25-year-old Melchizedek Kpaan in Ohio. He was taken into custody without incident at approximately 11:45 a.m. EST in coordination with the Ohio State Patrol and North Ridgeville Police Kpaan currently remains held at the Lorain County Jail in North Ridgeville, Ohio, awaiting extradition to Minnesota, where he faces a second-degree murder charge
🔍 Investigation Background
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Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Kpaan after gathering sufficientThe shooting occurred shortly before 8 p.m. at the Lakeland Avenue location. Officers initially responded, found Zoe with a gunshot wound, and transported her to a hospital where she succumbed to her injuries
🧠 Community Impact & Response
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Zoe’s death has left the Brooklyn Park community grappling with grief and an urgent desire for justice. Her family set up a GoFundMe to cover funeral expenses and honor her memory
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The suspect’s arrest has provided a measure of relief and hope that closure may soon begin for Zoe’s loved ones and the broader community yearning for answers.
📘 Next Steps in the Legal Process
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Extradition Pending: Kpaan will be extradited to Hennepin County, Minnesota, to await court proceedings.
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Upcoming Proceedings: Court appearances and pre-trial hearings will outline the timeline for a potential trial and legal resolution.
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Ongoing Investigation: Brooklyn Park Police continue to gather evidence—including witness statements and physical clues—to strengthen their case.
🕯️ In Memoriam
Zoe Dekontee Kpanlin, a young woman from Elk River, lost her life in a senseless act of violence mere days before reaching adulthood. Her passing has profoundly affected her family, friends, and the entire community.
As the legal process advances, law enforcement urges anyone with information—no matter how small—to contact Brooklyn Park Police and support the pursuit of justice for Zoe.