Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) condemned an alleged attempt to carry out a mass shooting targeting Indian Americans at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois, saying he and his family were present when the incident occurred.
In a press statement issued after authorities arrested a 19-year-old suspect, Krishnamoorthi said the incident took place at the temple where his family worships.
According to prosecutors cited in the statement, the suspect allegedly attempted to open fire Sunday, but his rifle jammed. Prosecutors said the suspect, who espoused white supremacist and neo-Nazi beliefs, later told coworkers about the incident and disclosed plans to return for another attempt. The coworkers alerted police, who arrested him before he could return.
“I am horrified that a white supremacist attempted to carry out a mass shooting targeting Indian Americans at the Hindu temple in Aurora where my family worships. My family and I were there when the attack was attempted last Sunday,” Krishnamoorthi said.
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Krishnamoorthi said the incident underscored the danger posed by anti-Indian hatred and white supremacy. He called for such threats to be taken seriously before lives are lost.
“I am grateful to the suspect’s coworkers who alerted police and commend the law enforcement officers who intervened. Every American deserves to live and worship without fear, and we must stand together against hatred in all its forms,” he added.
