Deadly New Years Eve Concert Crash Not Linked to Terrorist Attack, Police Find

Publish date: 2024-01-16

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating a deadly car crash that occurred outside of the band Moe.’s New Year’s Eve show at the Kodak Center in Rochester, NY.

Authorities began looking into the incident as a possible domestic terror attack. However, Rochester police have since confirmed they did not uncover any information indicating the suspect was motivated by political or social upset, per CNN.

During the early hours of Jan. 1, an SUV filled with gasoline canisters crashed into a group of people congregating outside the venue, killing two people and injuring another five. The suspect, a Syracuse resident called Michael Avery, has died.

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Initial reports claimed Avery had left behind a suicide note and journal in his hotel room but on Tuesday morning, a Rochester Police Chief denied this to be true. Variety has contacted the Rochester Police Department for further comment on the crash.

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Members of the band Moe. responded via social media with a statement on the morning of Jan. 1 that shared they were in a state of “profound shock and sadness,” writing, “On a night that was meant for celebration and togetherness, we are faced instead with a tragedy that defies understanding. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of those who lost their lives, and our thoughts are with those who were injured.”

Moe. also said they were “immensely thankful” to the first responders and venue staff “for their swift and courageous actions in securing everyone’s safety.” The note continued, “In these moments of confusion and grief, we stand together in solidarity… We believe in the power of music to heal and unite, and it is in this spirit that we will continue to move forward.”

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A post shared by moe. (@moetheband)

If you or anyone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources. 

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