Celebrity News June 11, 2016
Police: Christina Grimmie's Killer May Have Been 'Deranged Fan' Who Traveled to Kill Her
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According to a report on TMZ, the man who walked up to "The Voice" star Christina Grimmie and shot her in the head had no previous connection with her.
A source in law enforcement has also told TMZ that the killer had not exhibited bizarre behavior, and had no obvious red flags before he killed the young singer and then himself.
On Saturday, police held a news conference about the tragedy. In response to a question from a reporter about whether the killer may have been a "deranged fan," Chief John Mina of the Orlando Police said, "That'd be speculation, but that's what it's lookin' like. I mean, uh, we believe he came here to commit this crime."
The Orlando Police issues the following statement on the crime:
"On June 10, 2016, at approximately 10:24 p.m., Orlando Police responded to a call of shots fired at the Plaza Live, located at 425 N. Bumby Ave. Upon arrival officers found the male suspect, who was deceased, and one victim who was gravely injured. That victim, singer Christina Grimmie, was transported to the hospital with critical injuries. She later died from those injuries."
"Christina Grimmie was performing with the band Before You Exit at The Plaza Live Friday evening. The concert ended at 10:00 p.m. The band members and Christina stayed to sign autographs for fans and sell merchandise."
"Detectives were told the suspect — who is not being identified at this time — walked toward Christina and shot her. Christina's brother immediately tackled the suspect stopping him from causing any more harm to Christina and her fans. During the struggle, the suspect shot himself. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene."
"The investigation is in its preliminary stages. We know there are many questions and we will do our best to answer them as the investigations unfolds.Christina was a talented young artist and we know that her fans and supporters want as much information as possible. We will continue to update as the investigation unfolds."
Police believe the man, a 27-year-old white male, traveled from a city within Florida specifically to kill Grimmie, and planned to travel back after accomplishing his goal. The killer's electronics are being examined for a clear motive. He was armed with two handguns and a hunting knife.
