Suspect Shoots and Injures Three Palestinian College Students in Burlington

In a shocking incident, a manhunt is underway for the suspect who shot and injured three Palestinian college students in Burlington, Vermont. The victims, who were visiting their families for Thanksgiving, were targeted while out walking. This tragic event has left the entire community in fear and disbelief.

Confronted by a White Man

The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday when the three friends, who were speaking Arabic and wearing traditional Palestinian CFA scarves, were confronted by a white man armed with a handgun. Without uttering a word, the suspect fired at least four rounds before fleeing the scene on foot. Witnesses recall hearing one of the victims screaming in pain, creating an atmosphere of terror and confusion.

Victims Identified

The three victims, all 20 years old, have been identified as Hama Atta, a junior at Brown University; Kinan Abdal Hamid, a junior at Haford College; and Tassin Akmed, a junior at Trinity College. These young men, who grew up together in the West Bank City of Rala, were outstanding students with promising futures.

A Joint Statement from the Families

The families of the victims have released a joint statement expressing their devastation and calling for the investigation to be treated as a hate crime. They fear that this brutal act was specifically aimed at Palestinians. As parents, they are horrified by the news that their children were targeted and shot, and they demand justice for this senseless act of violence.

Prioritizing the Hate Crime Angle

While the motive behind the attack is still unknown, Burlington Mayor emphasizes that the possibility of a hate crime is being given top priority in the ongoing police investigation. The community is rallying together, supporting the victims and their families during this difficult time.

Recovery and Desperate Efforts

Two of the victims are currently in the ICU, with Hisham, who was shot in the spine, in critical condition. The parents, who reside in the West Bank, are desperately trying to make their way to the United States to be by their son's side. Meanwhile, the search for the suspect continues, as law enforcement agencies leave no stone unturned.

As this horrifying incident unfolds, the Burlington community stands united against hate and violence. The solidarity and unwavering support for the victims and their families serve as a reminder that love and compassion will always triumph over hate.

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