A year ago
District Attorney Larry Krasner stated that the man accused of murdering five people in a Philadelphia neighborhood had "clearly planned" the attack, but the investigation into additional factors could take several months. Krasner revealed that Kimbrady Carriker likely acted alone during the shooting spree but authorities are still examining his social media presence and mental health concerns.
According to law enforcement sources, Carriker allegedly told police that he committed the shooting to "clean up the neighborhood." Investigators are now scrutinizing his deleted social media page, which contained posts about guns, the Second Amendment, and concerns about the "loss of freedoms."
On the day of the shooting, Carriker shared a video advertisement for a tactical weapons accessories company. Initial reports of the shooting surfaced at around 8:30 p.m., and Carriker was eventually apprehended wearing a bulletproof vest and a ski mask. Authorities found an AR-style rifle, a 9 mm handgun, and an emergency response radio traffic scanner in his possession.
Carriker was arraigned on Wednesday, facing charges of murder, attempted murder, assault, reckless endangerment, and weapons charges. He was ordered to be held without bail. The victims of the shooting were identified as Daujan Brown (15), Lashyd Merritt (20), Dymir Stanton (29), Ralph Moralis (59), and Joseph Wamah Jr. (31).
The investigation into Carriker's behavior before the shooting revealed witnesses describing his abnormal conduct and increasing agitation. A will, written by Carriker, was discovered during a search of his home but did not include any plans related to the shooting. Investigators also found a .380-caliber handgun and ammunition that matched the rounds found at the crime scene.
Carriker's social media history depicted his support for pro-gun groups and former President Donald Trump. He shared posts criticizing President Joe Biden and expressing concern about a perceived loss of freedom. Religious references and quotes about protection were also found on his page.
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney expressed his condolences to the traumatized Kingsessing neighborhood, emphasizing the need to address gun availability and high-capacity weapons. The AR-style rifle and the 9 mm handgun found in Carriker's possession were privately assembled ghost guns, untraceable firearms without markings. The mayor highlighted the increase in ghost gun confiscations in the city, calling for stricter regulations to prevent their circulation.
The tragic shooting in Philadelphia occurred amid a series of recent incidents across the United States. The investigation into Carriker's psychological state, motivation, and intent is expected to be a lengthy process, involving the analysis of cell phones, social media, advanced technology, and extensive interviews.
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