Washington, DC —
President Joe Biden is deeply concerned by the shooting of three students of Palestinian descent in the US state of Vermont, which authorities believe was a hate crime, the White House said on Monday (27/11).
“The president and first lady are deeply shocked and concerned,” White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.
“These students are participating in a uniquely American tradition, gathering with family and loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving. They should be back on campus with their classmates, not in a hospital room.”
The suspect arrested in the shooting pleaded not guilty at the arraignment presented on Monday (27/11).
Police say Jason J. Eaton shot and wounded the three men Saturday night in Burlington. One of the students suffered serious injuries while the other was in stable condition.
Officials said Eaton, a white male, approached the three, who were walking, and fired at least four shots before fleeing. Authorities say the shooting may have been a hate crime.
Protests are widespread, and tensions are also rising in the US as the death toll in the Israel-Hamas war rises. (my/hour)