Mistaken Identity: Minneapolis Police Reopen 2001 Cold Case Featured on "America's Most Wanted"

Strategic Insights -

The cold case of Za Xiong's slaying in Minneapolis has been reopened, with police now believing it to be a case of mistaken identity. The case involves brothers Gary and Chong Vue, who have been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the 2001 shooting death of 21-year-old Xiong. The Vues admitted to driving by Xiong in his car and shooting him about 9:15 p.m. on July 10, 2001, in the 3600 block of Humboldt Avenue N.

Key Takeaways:

  • Za Xiong was shot and killed in a case of mistaken identity, according to the Minneapolis police investigation.
  • Brothers Gary and Chong Vue have been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the slaying.
  • The Vues admitted to driving by Xiong in his car and shooting him about 9:15 p.m. on July 10, 2001, in the 3600 block of Humboldt Avenue N.
  • Gary Vue admitted to the killing in a noncustodial interview with Minnesota detectives in March, but was allowed to leave without being arrested.
  • investigators found the truck allegedly used by the brothers during the slaying the same day as the interview.
  • Gary and Chong Vue may still be in California or Mexico, according to police.
  • A local member of an FBI fugitive task force contacted "America's Most Wanted" after a law enforcement conference, leading to the show's involvement in the case.
  • The show has a track record of helping to capture suspects in Minnesota cases, including the capture of Michael Dale Benson and William Myears.

Statistics:

  • 21 years old: The age of Za Xiong at the time of his death.
  • 9:15 p.m.: The time of the shooting on July 10, 2001.
  • 3600 block of Humboldt Avenue N.: The location of the shooting.
  • 2001: The year of the slaying.
  • 2: The number of brothers charged in connection with the slaying (Gary and Chong Vue).

Sources:

  • "America's Most Wanted" website
  • Court document cited by police
  • Minneapolis police statement