In a tragic incident in Jacksonville, Florida, 21-year-old Ryan Palmeter took the lives of three Black individuals at a local Dollar General store over the weekend. His disturbing writings, reviewed by Rolling Stone, revealed his hateful intentions, including targeting Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly.
Palmeter’s victims included Anolt Joseph “AJ” Laguerre Jr (19), Jerrald Gallion (29), and Angela Michelle Carr (52). Following the senseless murders, Palmeter turned the gun on himself.
In his writings, Palmeter launched racist and homophobic tirades against Eminem, referring to him as “Marshall Mathers,” “Slim Shady,” “Ken Keniff,” and “the white guy from D12.” He expressed his desire to kill Eminem, stating that he had crossed the line and should be “killed on sight.”
Palmeter also mentioned Machine Gun Kelly, going by his real name, Colson Baker, and suggested he may have had an opportunity to harm the rapper in Ohio, dubbing him an “honorable n-gger.”
FBI Director Christopher Wray highlighted the significance of Palmeter’s writings during a briefing call with law enforcement and community leaders. He emphasized that the writings, references made, and the shooter’s actions all underscored his intentions, motivations, and deep-seated hate.
The tragic event unfolded as Palmeter entered the Dollar General store equipped with a tactical vest, carrying a handgun and an AR-15 rifle adorned with swastika markings. Prior to the attack, he had visited a nearby Family Dollar store and was observed near Edward Waters University, a historically Black institution.
This heart-wrenching incident serves as a grim reminder of the destructive impact of hatred and prejudice in our society.