For the third time in recent weeks, a Democratic Party office in Tempe became the target of gunfire, renewing concerns about political violence as the campaign season heats up. According to AZCentral, the latest incident occurred near Southern Avenue and Priest Drive just after midnight on Sunday. Thankfully, the building was unoccupied at the time.
UPDATE:
— Tempe Police Department (@TempePolice) October 9, 2024
On 10/6/24 around 12:30 a.m., the Democratic National Committee campaign office was struck by what appears to be gunfire. No one was inside the building. This is now the third incident at the campaign office. pic.twitter.com/jH3qQBffsI
It appears that this spate of shootings began on September 16, with subsequent incidents following on September 23, and most recently, October 6. Each of the attacks took place during a narrow time window, between midnight and 1 a.m, where police say the suspect used firearm or BB gun rounds to shoot at the office's glass entryway. Despite no injuries being reported, the acts of vandalism have nonetheless cast a shadow over the democratic process.
Tempe Police are actively seeking a suspect in these shootings and have released a description of a vehicle of interest. It is described as a 2008-13 silver Toyota Highlander, complete with a sunroof, a roof rack, and five-spoke rims. Details from FOX 10 Phoenix reveal that surveillance footage has been instrumental in the ongoing investigation.
"No one was inside the office during the overnight hours, but this raises concerns about the safety of those who work in that building, as well as those nearby," Tempe Police Sgt. Ryan Cook told FOX 10 Phoenix.
Members of the public with any relevant information are being encouraged to come forward. They can contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS, or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish speakers to provide tips that may help resolve the case.
