‘No Evidence’ Teen Who Was Killed for Political Reasons Was ‘Republican Extremist’: Police

Alleged attacker reportedly told first responders he believed the teen was an “extremist.”

QUICK FACTS:
  • North Dakota law enforcement officials stated they believe there is “no evidence” that the teen who was mowed down earlier this week was a “Republican extremist.”
  • Cayler Ellingson, 18, was found Sunday after Shannon Brandt, 41, told a 911 dispatcher that he used his car to run down Ellingson because he was a “Republican extremist.”
  • Brandt reportedly felt threatened by Ellingson who, according to his mother, the family knew to some extent.
  • However, North Dakota Highway Patrol Capt. Bryan Niewind claimed there was no evidence that the teen was an extremist as the alleged attacker claimed: “There is no evidence to support the claim Brandt made about Ellingson,” Niewind said in a statement.
  • “This remains an active investigation and as evidence is gathered and reviewed, we will consult with the Foster County State’s Attorney to determine if Brandt’s current charges will remain as currently charged or if additional charges will be brought against him,” Niewind added.
WHAT THE ARREST AFFIDAVIT SAID:
  • “Brandt admitted to striking [Ellingson] with his car because he had a political argument with the pedestrian and believed the pedestrian was calling people to come get him,” the arrest affidavit reads. “Brandt admitted to leaving the scene of the incident and returning shortly after where he called 911.”
  • “Brandt admitted to State Radio that he hit the pedestrian and that the pedestrian was part of a Republican extremist group,” the document went on.
BACKGROUND:
  • Brandt was charged with vehicular homicide and leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death.
  • The teen who was at a street dance waiting for his mother to pick him up was found in the alleyway where he was struck.
  • As American Faith previously reported, Brandt was released Tuesday on a $50,00 bond after spending just two days in jail.

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