A Michigan man turned a quiet neighborhood into chaos, using an ATV to mow down an 80-year-old Trump supporter over a political sign. The 22-year-old suspect, after smashing windows and slashing tires of pro-Trump vehicles, called police to confess before ending his own life.
ATV Attack in Michigan
A Michigan man used an all-terrain vehicle to critically injure an 80-year-old man placing a Trump sign in his yard. Police are calling it a politically motivated attack.
Suspect Confesses and Ends His Life
The 22-year-old suspect in Sunday’s incident in Hancock called police to confess. Authorities say he took his own life shortly after.
Vandalism Before the Attack
Before targeting the elderly man, the suspect vandalized two parked vehicles. He smashed the windows of one displaying a Trump sticker and damaged the tires of another supporting the police.
Tensions High After Recent Assassination Attempt
This rampage occurred just over a week after a 20-year-old tried to kill Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. The political climate remains tense.
Sheriff’s Office Statement
The Houghton County Sheriff’s Office described the crimes as politically motivated. Victims displayed Trump election signs and ‘thin blue line’ paraphernalia.
Elderly Victim Hospitalized
The 80-year-old man was taken to the hospital with critical injuries. He was struck from behind by the suspect’s ATV.
Police Receive Confession Call
On Monday, police received a call from someone wanting to confess a crime involving an ATV driver. Officers found the suspect dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Community Impact
“This has deeply affected our community,” Hancock Police Chief Tami Sleeman told the Detroit News. “Our primary concern is everyone’s safety. Politics should not incite violence.”
No Additional Suspects
The police chief confirmed no one else is believed to be involved. Electronics were seized from the suspect’s home.
Statements from Democratic Leaders
Kamala Harris’s spokesman and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned political violence. They released statements highlighting the need for civility according to the New York Times.
Bipartisan Calls for Civility
The shooting of the Republican White House candidate led to bipartisan calls to reduce heated political rhetoric. Despite these calls, results have been mixed.
Arrest in Florida for Threats
Last Friday, police in Jupiter, Florida, arrested 68-year-old Michael Wiseman. He is suspected of making online threats toward Trump, his running mate JD Vance, and their families.
