The gunman who injured four people at a Walmart in Beavercreek, Ohio this week was motivated in part by racist ideology, according to an update from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Benjamin Charles Jones — who injured two Black women as well as a white man and white woman — was “partially inspired by racially motivated violent extremist (RMVE) ideology,” a 22 November update from the FBI and Beavercreek, Ohio police said.
Evidence collected by police included journal writings from Jones, who took his own life shortly after opening fire on 20 November.
“This investigation remains very active as the FBI thoroughly examines the attacker’s background, motive, connections, and online activity,” the update reads. “Anyone with information regarding Benjamin Charles Jones is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov.”
The FBI and Beavercreek police said Jones purchased the weapon — a Hi-Point .45 calibre carbine with one nine-round magazine — from a Dayton, Ohio Walmart just two days before the shooting.
Three of the victims are in stable condition, while the fourth is in critical but stable condition, according to a 21 November update from Beavercreek city officials.
A spokesperson for Walmart told The Independent the company is focused on their employees’ needs, including offering counseling services to those affected.
“We’re grateful to first responders and will continue working with local law enforcement,” the spokesperson wrote. “Our store will reopen Friday morning (November 24) at 6am local time.”
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
