A white gunman who opened fire inside a Walmart in Beavercreek, a suburb of Dayton, Ohio, and wounded four people before killing himself may have been motivated by racist extremism, according to the FBI. The incident occurred just days before Thanksgiving, leaving a community in shock and raising concerns about the prevalence of racially violent extremist ideologies.

Gunman’s Identity and Attack Details

The shooter has been identified as 20-year-old Benjamin Charles Jones from Dayton. He entered the Walmart on Monday night carrying a Hi-Point 45-caliber Carbine long gun. Jones fired multiple rounds, injuring four shoppers, including two Black women, a white woman, and a white man, before turning the weapon on himself.

FBI Investigation and Motive

Investigations into the incident have revealed evidence, including journal writings, suggesting that racially violent extremist ideology may have played a role in motivating the shooter. The FBI is actively examining the shooter’s background and online activity to gain further insights into his radicalization process.

Firearm Purchase and Background Check

The FBI has disclosed that Jones purchased the firearm two days prior to the attack from a store in Dayton. Investigators are currently verifying whether he provided any false information during the background check process. This incident has reignited debates about the effectiveness of background checks and the need for stricter gun control measures.

Victims and Their Conditions

The identities of the victims have not been released by authorities. However, as of Tuesday, three of the injured victims were reported to be in stable condition, while one woman remained in critical but stable condition.

Similar Incidents and Walmart’s Response

This shooting comes just a day after a man shot and killed a woman before taking his own life outside a Walmart in Anchorage, Alaska. Local authorities have classified the incident as domestic violence-related. Furthermore, the Ohio Walmart has a dark history, as it was the site of a fatal shooting involving police almost a decade ago. In 2014, a white police officer shot and killed 22-year-old John Crawford III, who had picked up an unpackaged pellet rifle from a shelf. The incident prompted changes in police policy and a settlement of $1.7 million with the victim’s family.

Addressing Gun Violence and Extremism

The Ohio Walmart shooting once again highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address gun violence and combat the spread of extremist ideologies. It also raises questions about the responsibilities of retailers like Walmart in ensuring the safety of their customers. As communities grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, there is a collective call for stronger gun control legislation and increased efforts to combat radicalization and hate.