Dayton shooter’s friend bought gear, officials say

A man told federal agents he bought body armor, a gun accessory and a 100round magazine for the Ohio gunman earlier this year, according to a court document unsealed Monday.

Federal investigators emphasized that there no was indication that Ethan Kollie knew that his friend, Connor Betts, was planning a mass shooting or how he would use the equipment. The charging document says Kollie kept the equipment at his apartment, so Betts’ parents would not find it.

The accusations came as prosecutors unsealed charges against Kollie that they said were unrelated to the Aug. 4 shooting in Dayton. Betts opened fire in a popular entertainment district, killing his sister and eight others. Officers killed Betts within 30 seconds, just outside a crowded bar.

Prosecutors are accusing Kollie of lying about not using marijuana on federal firearms forms in the purchase of a pistol that was not used in the shooting.

Possessing a firearm as an unlawful user of a controlled substance is a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Making a false statement regarding firearms carries a potential maximum sentence of up to five years’ imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Benjamin Glassman stressed that Kollie is not accused of intentionally taking part in the planning of the shooting.

A message seeking comment was left at a phone number for Kollie and with his attorney.

Police have said there was nothing in Betts’ background that would have prevented him from buying the AR15 style gun used in the shooting.

Investigators have not released a motive for the shooting.

Eight of the victims who died were shot multiple times, according to the Montgomery County coroner’s office. More than 30 others were left injured, including at least 14 with gunshot wounds, hospital officials and investigators said.

Just days after the shooting, Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine announced a package of gun control measures, including requiring background checks for nearly all gun sales in Ohio and allowing courts to restrict firearms access for people perceived as threats.