The deranged driver who plowed his SUV into a crowd in Rochester, killing two people on New Year's Day, had meticulously planned his deadly assault for days, authorities said Tuesday.
The suspect, Michael Avery, 35, of Syracuse, who died in the massacre, rented a Ford Expedition and drove around various parts of Monroe and Ontario counties on December 30th, using fuel for gasoline. I bought about 12 gas cans. It's a deadly plan, officials said.
Authorities say gruesome video footage showed the dead driver purchasing some of the supplies.
But while officials later searched the WoodSpring Suites Rochester Greek hotel room where Avery had been staying before the incident, as well as Avery's car, which he left at the Rochester Airport, they were unable to determine a motive. He admitted that he had not yet reached it.
Rochester Police Chief David Smith said at a press conference that Avery was likely suffering from “possible undiagnosed mental health issues” when he launched the attack that injured nine people. did.
“Investigators are still reviewing evidence recovered from his vehicle, but so far nothing has been recovered that would provide further insight into why this happened.” He urged the public to call the city police major crimes unit if they have any information. .
The chief said police have not found any clues to suggest anyone else was involved or that Avery was involved in a larger conspiracy.
He reiterated that Avery does not appear to be motivated by any particular political or social ideology, but the FBI agent further emphasized that in a short statement from the podium.
“To date, we have found no evidence of ideology or any links to terrorism, either internationally or domestically,” said Jeremy Bell, special agent in charge of the FBI's field office.
But many questions remain.
Smith said Avery left no suicide note or diary. And police don't know why he chose to attack Rochester or the Kodak Center in particular.
Around 12:50 a.m. Monday, he waded into the crowd emerging from the Kodak Center after a show by Moe., a Grateful Dead tribute band from Buffalo.
Two Rochester police officers were helping pedestrians cross the road when Avery sped toward them, veering into oncoming traffic and striking an Uber pulling out of a nearby parking lot, Smith said. he said.
A couple in the back seat of the rideshare died, and the Uber driver was taken to the hospital with non-serious injuries.
A car plowed into the crowd and burst into flames after impact, injuring nine other people.
The police chief said one person suffered “life-altering injuries” but the others were expected to make a full recovery.
Avery was taken to a hospital where he died from his injuries around 8 p.m. Monday, law enforcement sources told the Post.
Smith said Avery drove to Rochester in a private car on Dec. 27.
Smith added that he rented an Expedition from an agent at the Rochester Airport two days later and then left his car behind.
The chief said police are still talking with Avery's family.
