Elderly Man In Critical Condition After Alleged Attack Over Trump Sign

An 80-year-old resident of Hancock, Michigan, is in critical condition after an ATV driver allegedly ran him over while he was putting up a sign supporting President Donald Trump. Police suspect the incident was politically motivated.

On Sunday, Hancock police received reports of three related incidents, all believed to involve the same suspect. The first two involved vandalized vehicles—one had its tire valves broken, and another had its windows shattered. Hancock Police Chief Tami Sleeman noted the damages in a press release.

The third and most severe incident occurred when the elderly man was trying to re-install Trump signs in his front yard on Anthony Street. The suspect had allegedly pulled the signs down earlier. Around 5:45 p.m., the ATV driver returned and struck the man with his vehicle, causing severe injuries.

The victim was rushed to UP Health System hospital in Portage, where he is being treated for critical injuries, including a possible brain bleed. “We’re not sure what could happen. Could he die from these injuries? Possible,” said Chief Sleeman.

Authorities believe the ATV driver targeted supporters of Trump and law enforcement. They quickly identified a suspect, who was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police discovered the ATV used in the incident and seized electronic devices for further investigation.

The suspect’s identity has not been released, and investigations are ongoing. “There is no further threat to the public at this time,” the Houghton County Sheriff’s Office stated.