"Chicago Shooter Planned Attack Weeks in Advance... Disguised as Woman and Opened Fire Indiscriminately"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] A 21-year-old man who indiscriminately opened fire on spectators during a parade in Highland Park near Chicago on July 4, the US Independence Day (local time), was found to have meticulously planned the crime weeks in advance and prepared a disguise for escape on the day of the incident.

According to local media on the 5th (local time), investigators have charged the gunman, Robert Crimo III, with seven counts of first-degree murder and other charges. As of now, seven people have died and more than 35 have been injured from the shooting that occurred during the parade the previous day.

The Lake County Major Crimes Task Force, which is investigating the case, said at a press conference that "(Crimo III) planned the attack weeks in advance" and "he climbed up to a nearby building rooftop using an emergency escape ladder and fired more than 70 rounds from an AR-15 style rifle at the crowd at the parade event." The firearm used was confirmed to have been legally purchased in the Chicago area. It is understood that he purchased a total of five guns.

Additionally, Crimo III fled the scene disguised as a woman. He went to his mother's nearby house and escaped by car but was apprehended by police who pursued him after receiving a tip eight hours later. The motive for the crime has not yet been confirmed. Investigators are treating Crimo III as a lone perpetrator and are conducting their investigation accordingly.

The Illinois State Prosecutor's Office stated that Crimo was first charged with seven counts of first-degree murder and that "dozens of additional charges will be applied for each victim." Crimo III is scheduled to appear in court on the 6th. It has been found that Crimo III had previously received psychiatric treatment for threatening behavior toward others. A video he posted on YouTube included footage of the shooter being shot along with a voice saying, "I have to do it. It is fate."