A man from Michigan reportedly admitted to deliberately running over an elderly man with an ATV, causing serious injuries. Law enforcement officials stated that the attack was believed to be politically motivated, targeting a supporter of former President Donald Trump. The man then took his own life, as reported on July 23.
The individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, asked for law enforcement assistance. Upon arriving at the provided location, officers found a 22-year-old man who had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Following a search of the man’s residence with a warrant, authorities discovered electronic devices that will be examined by digital forensic experts. Additionally, they recovered the ATV allegedly used in the assault on the elderly man in Hancock, along with clothing worn by the suspect during the incident.
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Hancock, located in Houghton County, has a population of around 4,500 people according to the 2020 census. The victim, an 80-year-old male, was targeted while placing a political sign in his yard by the alleged assailant driving the ATV.
The injured man was hospitalized in critical condition. The suspect also damaged vehicles on the same day, seemingly targeting supporters of Trump and law enforcement, as per the police report.
Authorities did not specify how the attacker identified the vehicles belonging to Trump supporters or law enforcement individuals.
These incidents occurred shortly after a 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania on July 13. The former President narrowly escaped, sustaining a gunshot wound to the ear. One attendee was killed, and two others were seriously injured in the shooting.
Investigations into the attacks in Hancock are ongoing, with further details expected to be disclosed in due course. The Sheriff’s Office assured that there is currently no imminent threat to public safety related to these incidents.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contemplating suicide, struggling with mental health issues, or involved in substance abuse, contact the U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 to speak with a counselor.
