Two weeks after his business was targeted in back-to-back arson attacks, Jason Fletcher is still dealing with a broken window — but said he is grateful for strong support from the Northeast community.

Firomsa Ahmed Umar has been charged with two counts of first-degree arson, for throwing flammable materials — Molotov cocktails — through the windows of Fletcher’s Ice Cream & Cafe in Northeast Minneapolis on Oct. 19 and 20. He is currently in custody, according to court documents.

The fire bombs damaged the storefront and set two chairs on fire, according to Fletcher. Employees at neighboring business Mac’s Industrial Sports Bar came over to put the fire out and contacted Fletcher and the police. The cafe is still open, but visible damage remains. 

“We have a broken window that’s going to be fixed fairly soon,” Fletcher said.

In the days after the attacks, community members and local officials rallied outside the business in support. Council member Michael Rainville (Ward 3) said his office helped organize a gathering that drew more than 200 people to the sidewalk.

“This does not belong in our community of Northeast Minneapolis — this is not who we are,” Rainville said. “It’s very heartwarming to live in and represent a community that is so supportive of this horrible, horrible crime.” 

Fletcher’s Ice Cream & Cafe displays an all-inclusive flag in the storefront. Fletcher said while he does not know the motive behind the attack, the incident serves as a reminder to unite against any hate.

“Regardless of whether this was based on our flag or not, it was still a hateful thing for him to do,” Fletcher said. “The way we’re responding is not with more hate — it’s with bringing our community together, loving each other, showing support, and really just being united. That will show that we are not willing to tolerate this type of behavior.” 

For now, Fletcher said he is focused on repairing the physical damage and continuing to serve his community. The incident is not keeping the Northeast business down.  

“We can overcome this type of thing,” Fletcher said.