A father in Portland faces trial for attempted murder and first-degree assault after shooting another father in the groin at the parking lot of the Islamic School of Portland. The incident occurred on October 17, 2024, during school pickup time, involving Noureddine Dib, 43, and Michael Zakarneh, 49, whose children attend the school.
The Shooting Unfolds
Surveillance footage shown in court captures Zakarneh approaching Dib’s car shortly before 2:30 p.m. The two men exchange brief words before Dib fires a single shot from a 9mm handgun, striking Zakarneh in the groin. Zakarneh flees, jumping down stairs and fracturing his ankle in the process. Dib runs toward the school, pausing to pat a child on the head, then enters the office, disassembles his weapon, and calls 911.
During the 911 call, Dib states, “I’m a peaceful person, but this guy keeps harassing me.”
Prosecution and Defense Arguments
Multnomah County prosecutor Stephany Mgbadigha contends Dib premeditated the attack by bringing a loaded firearm to the school. She notes Dib did not express fear for his life during the 911 call.
Defense attorney Kristen Winemiller argues self-defense, describing Zakarneh’s approach as a threatening charge. She asserts Dib feared a “vicious, felonious attack right outside his children’s school” from a man who had tormented him with mocking gestures and derogatory language for weeks. Winemiller says Dib fired “a single defense shot.”
Prior Incidents Between the Men
Court discussions reveal three earlier verbal confrontations. One year prior, Zakarneh allegedly screamed at a mother at the school, prompting Dib to intervene out of concern for her safety.
In September 2024, Dib honked at Zakarneh’s fast-moving pickup truck in the parking lot. Prosecutors describe Dib shouting about Zakarneh’s tow truck without provocation. Winemiller clarifies Dib did not recognize him initially.
A week later, Zakarneh allegedly followed Dib home, leading Dib to call 911 multiple times. Prosecutors counter that the men live nearby and no pursuit occurred. Around that time, Zakarneh greeted Dib with “Assalamu Alaikum” in Arabic; Dib reportedly responded aggressively, saying, “If you think you’re a big guy, I will f*** you up right now.” Zakarneh testified Dib flipped him off in front of the children the day before the shooting.
Community Involvement
School staff and mosque leaders adjacent to the Islamic School of Portland have supported Dib since the incident. During a 2024 bail hearing, the school principal and mosque representatives submitted letters advocating for his release, describing him as peaceful. Dib has no prior criminal history. The trial continues into next week.
