White Kroger Shooting Suspect Charge With Federal Hate Crimes

Gregory Bush, a white man accused of killing two black shoppers at a Kroger grocery store in Jeffersontown, Ky., last month, was indicted on hate crimes and firearm charges by a federal grand jury on Thursday.

The 51-year-old is charged with "shooting and killing two victims because of their race and color; and for shooting at a third man because of his race and color," according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman in the Western District of Kentucky.

"There is no place for hate-fueled violence in our community or Commonwealth," Coleman said in a statement. "Federal, state, and local law enforcement stand united to ensure that Kentuckians can shop, worship, or attend school without the specter of fear."

The indictment alleges that Bush committed the killings "after substantial planning and premeditation."

Investigators said Bush opened fire in the supermarket on Oct. 24, fatally shooting Maurice Stallard, 69, in the back of the head, then shooting him several more times. On his way out, Bush killed Vickie Lee Jones, 67, in the parking lot.

A white man who was in the same parking lot at the time of the shooting told reporters Bush walked by him and said, "Don't shoot me. I won't shoot you. Whites don't shoot whites."

Minutes before the ambush Bush was also captured on surveillance video trying to enter the First Baptist Church — a predominantly African-American congregation — during a service but locked doors prevented him from entering.

Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker called Bush's alleged crimes "horrific."

"We cannot and will not tolerate violence motivated by racism," Whitaker said in a statement. "We will bring the full force of the law against these and any other alleged hate crimes against fellow Americans of any race," he said.

If convicted, Bush could face life in prison or even execution. The Justice Department said it will decide at a later date whether it will pursue the death penalty.

Bush pleaded not guilty on Nov. 2 to two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder and two counts of wanton endangerment.

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This story really saddens me like the rest. What's even more sad the shooter was seen on video trying to enter a black church. We are not even safe in church, but yet America suppose to be a Christian nation? try again. My heart breaks for both victims and their families, it really does. This should have never happened. My condolences goes out to both families. I'll continue to update everyone on any new developments.