The Democratic Party has shut down its campaign office in Tempe, Arizona, following a series of gunfire incidents that occurred over the past month. This decision was confirmed by Lauren Kuby, a candidate for the Democratic state Senate, who stated that campaign activities have now moved to undisclosed locations.
According to reports, the office was struck by both bullets and BB gun pellets on September 16, September 23, and October 6, but thankfully, it was empty during all three incidents and no injuries were reported.
Concerns about political violence have escalated in the U.S. after an assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania left the candidate slightly injured and claimed one life. In another incident, a man named Ryan Wesley Routh was arrested for allegedly aiming a rifle at Trump’s golf club in Florida; he has pled not guilty to attempted assassination charges.
The targeted Arizona office is situated on Southern Avenue near Priest Drive, and the Tempe Police Department is investigating the shootings. They are offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. A police spokesperson stated about the latest incident, “On [October 6] around 12:30 a.m., the campaign office was struck by what appears to be gunfire. There was no one inside at the time. This is the third occurrence.”
Silent Witness reported that the shootings involved both BB and firearm rounds, occurring late at night. The organization is asking for any tips to help solve the case.
Police have circulated flyers featuring a potential suspect’s vehicle, described as a 2008-2013 silver Toyota Highlander with distinguishing features like a sunroof and roof rack. A photograph taken after the October 6 incident appears to show a bullet hole in the office’s window.
Expressing gratitude toward the Tempe Police for their prompt response, Kuby noted, “We’re fortunate that no one was present or hurt.”
As a key battleground state, Arizona is pivotal for the 2024 presidential election. After backing Trump in 2016, the state shifted to support Biden in 2020. A recent poll by Fabrizio, Lee & Associates for The Wall Street Journal shows Vice President Harris leading Trump 48% to 46%.