Mass Shooting Attempt at Aurora Hindu Temple Prevented

U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi and his family were present at the Aurora Hindu temple on Sunday when authorities accused a 19-year-old man from Palatine of attempting a mass shooting there.

“I am horrified that a white supremacist tried to carry out a mass shooting targeting Indian Americans at the Hindu temple in Aurora where my family worships,” stated the Schaumburg Democrat on Thursday.

According to Krishnamoorthi, citing information from Cook County prosecutors, the suspect, Alexandros Paporakis, attempted to open fire on the temple that Sunday. His rifle, however, jammed. Following this, Paporakis allegedly shared what had happened with co-workers, along with plans to try again. The co-workers informed the police, leading to the suspect’s arrest before he could return.

Palatine police reported on Wednesday that they arrested Paporakis Sunday evening as he left his residence on North Baldwin Drive. During the investigation, authorities found a manifesto titled “Why I Fought: A.K.A. (Aurora Shooter’s Manifesto)” which contained white supremacist and extremist statements.

In addition, police discovered weapons, ammunition, tactical equipment, body armor, and a patch linked to white supremacist extremism at Paporakis’ home.

Currently, Paporakis is detained in Cook County Jail, facing charges of making a terrorist threat and unlawful possession of weapons. He is scheduled to appear in court on October 30.

“The threat of such violence highlights the danger of anti-Indian hatred and white supremacy,” Krishnamoorthi said on Thursday. “We cannot wait until innocent people are killed to take these threats seriously.”

The Consulate General of India also issued a statement on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the “timely action by law enforcement authorities.” The statement added, “We are in touch with members of the Indian diaspora and are monitoring developments.”