A fiery crash involving an extra-large SUV filled with gas canisters outside of a popular entertainment venue in Upstate New York has authorities fearing the worst.
The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force has begun a domestic terrorism investigation after a fuel-laden Ford Expedition driven by Michael Avery of Syracuse plowed into an Uber and a pedestrian crossing outside of Rochester's Kodak Center. The collision occurred a short time after a New Year's Eve concert by the band Moe. Members of Moe. expressed “profound shock and sadness” in a statement but thanked first responders for their efforts.
The resulting explosion killed Avery and two of the Uber's passengers. Three pedestrians were hospitalized, one in critical condition. It took firefighters approximately one hour to extinguish the blaze.
Prior to Sunday's incident, Avery had stayed in a hotel room in Rochester. During a search of his room, the Rochester Police Department found a suicide note and journal, leading to their suspicions. Law enforcement will search his storage unit in nearby North Syracuse today.
According to sources with firsthand knowledge, Avery's family believed he was bipolar, though he never received that diagnosis.
Syracuse.com has reaction from a shaken community:
Police and Rochester Mayor Malik Evans have asked anyone with potential information or witnesses to the incident to contact the authorities.
“We know there are many questions related to this investigation and we ask for patience as we continue to seek the answers to those questions and to determine exactly led to this tragedy,” Rochester police said.
In a statement, moe. said the events left the group in “profound shock and sadness.”
“In these moments of confusion and grief, we stand together in solidarity. While the full details of the incident are still unfolding, our focus remains on the well-being of those affected and on the spirit of unity that has always been the hallmark of our community,” the band said. “We believe in the power of music to heal and unite, and it is in this spirit that we will continue to move forward. We are reminded of how precious each moment is and the importance of supporting one another through all times, good and bad. Let us hold onto the values of compassion, love, and community that define us.”
