28-11-2023 (NEW YORK) An American man, Jason Eaton, 48, has been charged with attempted murder in Vermont after shooting three men of Palestinian descent in what authorities have described as a hateful act. However, Vermont state attorney Sarah George stated that there is currently insufficient evidence to support adding hate crime enhancements to the charges.
The shooting took place in Burlington, a northeastern US city, where the gunman approached the three college students as they walked together on a city block. Without provocation, he opened fire, according to the police.
This incident has occurred during a period of heightened tensions in the United States due to the Israel-Hamas war. College campuses and various locations have witnessed a rise in threats and violent acts, including Islamophobia and anti-Semitism.
President Joe Biden expressed his horror at the shooting, as the students had gathered to observe the American holiday of Thanksgiving. In a statement, he emphasized that violence and hate have no place in America.
The incident has also sparked anger and shock among several US lawmakers.
Eaton was apprehended on Sunday and appeared before a judge in a Burlington court on Monday. According to NBC, he pleaded not guilty to the shootings.
Burlington Police Chief Jon Murad recounted the encounter with Eaton when law enforcement agents arrived at his apartment door. Eaton reportedly stated, “I’ve been waiting for you.” When asked why, he responded, “I would like a lawyer.” Authorities conducted a search of the premises and discovered a weapon and ammunition that matched the shells found at the scene of the shooting.
US Attorney General Merrick Garland addressed the incident, warning of the increasing threats from “domestic violent extremists” and pledging a thorough investigation. Garland acknowledged the understandable fear gripping the United States, as the country has experienced a sharp rise in threats and attacks against Jewish and Muslim communities since the Gaza Strip conflict on October 7.
A police statement indicated that two of the victims were in stable condition, while the third sustained more severe injuries. Among the victims, two are US citizens, and one is a legal resident. Additionally, two of the young men were wearing keffiyehs, the traditional black and white Palestinian scarves.
All three victims are graduates of the Ramallah Friends School, a private Quaker school in the West Bank, and are currently attending different universities in the northeastern United States.
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