A retired Arizona engineer faces terrorism charges for a shooting spree targeting a DNC office, sparking broader discussions about political violence. Jeffrey Kelly fired over 20 shots in 3 weeks. He was later arrested and authorities reportedly found over 200 firearms leading to mass attack speculation.
Details of the Incident
Jeffrey Michael Kelly, a 60-year-old retired aerospace engineer, was arrested and charged with terrorism following a series of shootings at the Democratic National Committee office in Tempe, Arizona. Between September 16 and October 6, Kelly reportedly fired more than 20 shots at the building using a carbon dioxide-powered gun initially, followed by firearms. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the incidents occurred shortly after midnight when the building was empty.
Significant damage to the office’s windows, doors, and walls led to the closure of the DNC office following the third shooting. Surveillance footage contributed to Kelly’s arrest, with Tempe Police Chief Kenneth McCoy reporting that Kelly posted anti-Democrat signs in the area. Despite a large cache of weapons found at his home, Kelly’s motive remains unclear.
JUST IN @TempePolice announce arrest in shootings that targeted @DNC office in Tempe. No one was injured. Suspect also connected to campaign sign vandalism in Ahwatukee, per PD. Suspect will be ID'd, w more info, at 4pm Wednesday newser. pic.twitter.com/bFRC7kQ9SR
— Brahm Resnik (@brahmresnik) October 23, 2024
Legal and Public Reaction
The Maricopa County Attorney’s office has taken action, with Kelly facing numerous charges, including terrorism, discharging a firearm at a structure, and unlawful discharge of a firearm. Each charge is compounded by the discovery of over 200 guns and more than 250,000 rounds of ammunition at his residence, suggesting troubling intentions. His attorney contends the weaponry was solely for lawful sports shooting.
The surveillance footage that prompted the arrest revealed a vehicle linked to the suspect. This, along with Chief McCoy’s comment about Kelly’s prior anti-Democrat activity, added layers to the investigation. Kelly currently remains held on two $500,000 cash-only bonds.
JUST IN: Tempe police say a man was arrested in connection to three separate shootings at DNC offices in September as well as an incident in Ahwatukee today where political signs were damaged. https://t.co/kcq45LuQaN
— ABC15 Arizona (@abc15) October 23, 2024
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation progresses, authorities are keen to determine whether this was an isolated incident or part of a broader agenda. The focus remains on confirming whether the massive arms cache points to a plot more significant than a mere case of a disgruntled individual. Prosecutor Neha Bhatia’s statement that Kelly “was preparing to commit an act of mass casualty” raises further concerns.
While the DNC office targeted is one of 18 in Arizona supporting Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign, the political aspect of these attacks cannot be ignored. The outcomes of these charges and the ongoing investigation are being closely watched by citizens concerned about security and political freedom.
