Police arrested a 60-year-old Arizona man in connection with multiple shootings targeting a Democratic campaign office in Tempe, Arizona. Authorities discovered more than 120 firearms, including machine guns, at his home, raising concerns about the potential escalation of his actions. Investigators are now examining whether the suspect had broader plans for violence.
The Tempe Police Department arrested Jeffrey Michael Kelly on Tuesday, Oct. 22, in connection with three shootings at a Democratic National Committee office. Police believe Kelly was also involved in suspicious incidents involving political signs.
Our @TempePolice Department arrested a suspect in connection with the DNC office shootings. Get the latest details and watch statements made by Chief Kenneth McCoy and Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. https://t.co/ooosRZbdP3 pic.twitter.com/5YSMWSQUOS
— City of Tempe, AZ (@Tempegov) October 24, 2024
Kelly faces multiple felony charges, including acts of terrorism, unlawful discharge of a firearm and criminal damage.
The charges stem from allegations that he fired at the office on three occasions. Investigators said he used a BB gun and a .22 caliber firearm.
Authorities launched an investigation into Kelly after receiving a tip from the public, which, along with surveillance footage, linked him to the shootings that took place in September and October.
The office also housed staff for Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign and was targeted during overnight hours. Police said no one was hurt. However, they noted that the escalating nature of the attacks raised safety concerns for those working nearby.
During a search of Kelly’s home in the Ahwatukee Foothills, officers discovered a cache of more than 120 firearms. This included machine guns, silencers, body armor and 250,000 rounds of ammunition.
Prosecutors suggested Kelly’s accumulation of weapons, combined with his previous arrests for stealing campaign signs, raised concerns about the possibility of a larger planned act of violence.
Kelly is also accused of posting political signs in a nearby village, lining them with barbed wire and attaching a bag of white powder. Authorities are still investigating these actions, with additional charges pending.
Kelly made his initial court appearance on Wednesday, Oct. 24, where a judge set his bail at $500,000 and ordered electronic monitoring if released.
