Jeffrey Kelly, a retired aerospace engineer, faces terrorism charges. Kelly fired multiple shots at an empty DNC office. A large cache of firearms was found at Kelly’s home, raising speculations of a mass attack.
Alleged Shooting Spree
Jeffrey Michael Kelly, a 60-year-old from Arizona, was recently arrested and charged with terrorism in connection to multiple shootings at a Democratic National Committee (DNC) office located in Tempe. Between September 16 and October 6, Kelly allegedly fired more than 20 rounds at the DNC facility, targeting its windows, front doors, and walls. These incidents occurred after midnight; therefore, no injuries were recorded as the building was unoccupied at those times.
Authorities initially identified Kelly through surveillance footage capturing a vehicle tied to the series of shootings. Subsequent investigations led to his arrest, and he now faces several indictments including terrorism, discharging firearms at a structure, unlawful firearm discharge, and significant property damage. The severity of the charges has warranted $500,000 cash-only bonds for his release.
JUST IN Phoenix man indicted on felony terrorism charge & 7 other felony counts for allegedly shooting at @DNC field office in Tempe. https://t.co/3LSf7NHhoL pic.twitter.com/SMmsCU14Ad
— Brahm Resnik (@brahmresnik) October 30, 2024
Weapons Cache Discovery
During a search of Kelly’s residence, law enforcement uncovered over 200 firearms and more than 250,000 rounds of ammunition. This discovery raised concerns among investigators regarding Kelly’s potential intentions. Maricopa County prosecutor Neha Bhatia suggested that Kelly “was preparing to commit an act of mass casualty.” The prosecution is closely examining whether there were plans for a larger attack, although no clear motive has been disclosed to the public as of now.
Kelly’s attorney has countered these assertions by emphasizing Kelly’s clean criminal record before this arrest. According to his legal defense, the considerable collection of firearms was attributed solely to sport-related and lawful purposes. Despite these claims, the sheer volume and variety of weapons discovered have drawn significant scrutiny.
Arizona: Man Accused Of Shooting DNC Campaign Office Indicted On Terrorism Charges https://t.co/xyp1x1pfI5 #OAN
— One America News (@OANN) October 30, 2024
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The incidents have significantly affected staff and the local community at the Tempe DNC office, which plays a crucial role in supporting Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign across one of 18 field offices in Arizona. Due to safety concerns, the office closed following the third shooting incident. Tempe Police Chief Kenneth McCoy noted Kelly’s prior activities in the area, such as posting anti-Democrat signs, but refrained from speculating further on his motivation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are carefully piecing together the chronology of events and assessing the full extent of Kelly’s alleged plans. The case has sparked discussions around firearm regulations, public safety, and the lines between legal hobby activities and threats to the community. Kelly remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.
