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13th Apr 2022

Person of interest named in Brooklyn subway shooting

Charlie Herbert

The man had recently been critical of the New York City Mayor

New York City police have identified a “person of interest” after 10 people were shot in a Brooklyn subway attack on Tuesday morning.

During rush hour, a male attacker fired a weapon “at least 33 times,” shooting seven men and three women. Another 13 people suffered injuries related to smoke inhalation, falling over, or a panic attack.

Police are looking for 62-year-old Frank R James, believing him to be connected to the attack because he rented a van in Philadelphia that may be linked to the shooting.

The key to the vehicle was found at the scene, along with the weapon, three extended magazines, an axe and a range of potential incendiary devices.

New York Police Department Chief of Detectives James Essig said: “We are looking to determine if he has any connection to the train.”

The NYPD have asked “anyone with information on his whereabouts” to call a hotline.

Being identified as a person of interest does not make James a suspect in the attack, but does mean that police believe he may have information concerning the crime.

According to the New York Times, James has posted a number of videos on social media in recent years in which he expresses bigoted views, and he recently criticised New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

The attack is not currently being treated as an act of terrorism.

Late on Tuesday, police gave more information on the attack, which involved a man detonating two smoke grenades and opening fire at 36th Street station, shortly before 8.30am local time.

Police chief Essig said that the attacker fired a Glock 9 mm semi-automatic handgun “at least 33 times, striking 10 people.”

All the victims are expected to survive.

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