FBI probes hate crime angle, MEA to monitor progress

THE KANSAS City shooting, which left one Indian dead and two other men injured, is being probed by federal authorities as a possible hate crime.

The shooting triggered outrage on social media, where many voiced concern that US President Donald Trump’s “America First” position on immigration and jobs has fuelled a climate of intolerance.

Navy veteran Adam Purinton, 51, was charged on Thursday in Johnson County, Kansas, with one count of premeditated first-degree murder and two counts of attempted premeditated first-degree murder, District Attorney Stephen Howe told reporters. He declined to elaborate on the details of the incident or the motive for the shooting.

The FBI is investigating whether it was a hate crime. Federal agents joined police to canvass the area on Thursday, FBI spokesperson Bridget Patton said.

Olathe Police Sgt. Logan Bonney said officers were interviewing and re-interviewing witnesses. “We want to present the best case possible and separate fact from fiction for the benefit of the victims and the community,” he said.

Asked at a news conference if the involvement of federal authorities indicated the shooting might be considered a hate crime, FBI special agent Eric Jackson said it was too early to determine. “This was a violent crime and we want the best prosecution that relates to this because there are victims of this crime and we want the community to know that... We’re looking to make sure that the individual involved is held accountable for his actions, he said.

The Indian government said its diplomats would monitor progress in the investigation in Kansas. “I have spoken to Indian Ambassador in US Navtej Sarna. He informed me that two Indian Embassy officials have rushed to Kansas,” Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj tweeted.

The MEA will make all arrangements to transport to Hyderabad the remains of Srinivas Kuchibhotla. Swaraj said she had spoken to his family in Hyderabad and conveyed her condolences.

“I have assured all help and assistance to the family. We will make all arrangements to transport the mortal remains of Srinivas Kuchibhotla to Hyderabad,” she tweeted.

Kavipriya Muthuramalingam, a friend of the victim, has raised more than $250,000 via a crowd-funding website to help with the funeral and other expenses. He said his friend was one of the nicest, most gentle people.