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May 17, 2022

California Church Shooting Was "Politically Motivated Hate Crime" Against Taiwanese Community
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In California, officials in Orange County say Sunday's mass shooting at
a church in Laguna Woods was a "politically motivated hate crime"
targeting the Taiwanese community.

Sheriff Donald Barnes: "It is believed the suspect involved was upset
about political tensions between China and Taiwan."

Police named the suspect: 68-year-old David Chou of Las Vegas, a Chinese
immigrant and U.S. citizen. He reportedly placed Molotov cocktails
around the church and chained exit doors shut before opening fire on a
congregation gathered for a luncheon. Dr. John Cheng died in the
assault, and four others were rushed to the hospital with gunshot
wounds. On Monday, Orange County officials hailed Dr. Cheng as a hero
who rushed the gunman, giving others a chance to subdue their attacker.


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