MINNEAPOLIS, MN – A man and woman have been charged with second-degree murder in connection with a fatal shooting that took place in Minneapolis last spring.
According to court documents, officers responded to reports of gunfire on the 2200 block of 5th Avenue North at approximately 4:43 a.m. on May 17, 2024. Upon arrival, police found a male victim lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds.
The victim was initially responsive but lost consciousness shortly after, suffering gunshot wounds to his face, neck, chest, and abdomen. He was rushed to Hennepin County Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.
🔍 Investigation Leads to Two Suspects
Witnesses reported hearing an argument followed by gunshots, and a red Chevrolet Suburban was seen leaving the scene.
Investigators later found the Suburban abandoned in Minneapolis two days after the shooting. Using surveillance footage, DNA evidence, and forensic analysis, police linked two suspects to the crime:
- Vernon Sirhyde Archie, 28
- Megan Renee Karjala, 24
Both suspects were arrested in Saint Paul on May 20, 2024, after officers responded to a separate shots-fired incident. Authorities discovered a stolen vehicle and multiple firearms, including a .45 caliber pistol, which was later confirmed through ballistics testing as the murder weapon.
⚠️ Murder Linked to Carjacking Setup via Dating App
According to Karjala’s statement, she and Archie planned to steal a vehicle that night. Karjala admitted to luring the victim to the location under the pretense of a meeting arranged through a dating app.
When the victim arrived, the suspects attempted to take his keys, leading to a confrontation. As the victim tried to flee, Archie allegedly shot him multiple times. Karjala then held the victim at gunpoint while Archie retrieved the keys, before both suspects fled the scene in the stolen Suburban.
🚔 Warrants Issued for Both Suspects
Authorities have now issued warrants for the arrest of Archie and Karjala. Anyone with information on their whereabouts is urged to contact law enforcement immediately.
This is a developing case, and more updates will follow as new details emerge.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for TRF News