By Trend News Line 2024-07-02 05:54:37.
# Nebraska community shocked by racially motivated shooting
**LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN/Gray News)** – The tight-knit community of Crete, Nebraska, is reeling after a tragic incident unfolded on Friday evening. The peace of this quiet neighbourhood was shattered when 74-year-old Billy Booth opened fire on his neighbours, injuring seven individuals.
**Suspect identified as Billy Booth**
Authorities were alerted to the shooting in Crete at around 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Upon arrival, they discovered that Booth had fired a shotgun from his home, striking seven people in the yard of a neighbouring residence. Booth was later found dead in his home from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
**Victims include three adults and four children**
The victims range in age from 3 years old to 43, and thankfully, all are expected to recover from their injuries. A representative from the League of United Latin American Citizens, who is aiding the affected family, expressed the trauma that the family has endured over the past few days. Originally from Guatemala, the family has called Crete home for the past decade.
**Potential racial motivation**
While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the shooting was racially motivated. The Nebraska State Patrol revealed that Booth and the family had not spoken prior to the shooting, but Crete’s police chief disclosed that there had been previous altercations between them. Reports indicate that Booth had previously yelled at the family to “go home” and “speak English.”
**Community reflects on the tragedy**
Residents of Crete have been left in shock by the events that transpired. Sawyer Hanson, the grandson of one of Booth’s neighbours, described the suspect as unpredictable, alternating between moments of normalcy and outbursts of anger. Crete Mayor Dave Bauer emphasized that the shooting does not define the community of Crete, which has a history of unity and progress.
**Moving forward**
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, Mayor Bauer encouraged residents to come together and support one another. Despite the sorrow that hangs over Crete, he remains optimistic about the future, believing that the community will overcome this dark chapter.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of unity and understanding in the face of adversity. As the investigation continues, the residents of Crete are determined to stand together and heal as a community.
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1. Man injures neighbors in shooting racially motivated police say
2. Man injures neighbors shooting racially motivated police say.