US probing New Jersey attack as 'domestic terrorism'

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - Authorities are investigating a bloody attack this week on a kosher market in the U.S. state of New Jersey as a potential act of domestic terrorism.

Speaking at a press briefing, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal said authorities believe the suspects held views that reflected hatred of the Jewish people and a hatred of law enforcement.

"The evidence points towards acts of hate," said Grewal. "I can confirm that we are investigating this matter as potential acts of domestic terrorism fueled both by anti-Semitism and anti-law enforcement beliefs."

The shooters were identified as David Anderson, 47, and Francine Graham, 50.

Grewal said they "expressed interest" in the Black Hebrew Israelite movement, noting the authorities have yet to definitively establish any formal links to that organization or to any other group.

"Based on the available evidence, we believe the two shooters were acting on their own," he added.

The gun battle Tuesday between police and the suspects at the Jewish JC Kosher Supermarket in Jersey City lasted more than four hours. In all, six people died in the carnage, including the two shooters, a police officer and three bystanders.