CNN reported that an explosion hit New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood Saturday night, leaving dozens injured but no dead. There are no known leads as to who carried out the explosion and why, but controversy has already begun on Twitter. Mayor Bill De Blasio’s comments that the attack was “intentional” but showed no signs of “terrorism” have been criticized, and many on the alt-right are already linking the attack to Muslims.
According to CNN, De Blasio said the attack “was an intentional act.” On the other hand, he said “there’s no evidence at thsi point of a terror connection.” Sensing a contradiction, many tweeters hammered him for these comments.
How can a detonated device be deliberately placed by someone who isn't considered a terrorist? https://t.co/B4QaZ7ztaq
NYC explanation that explosion was intentional but there are no threats against the city doesn't make sense. Not credible. #ChelseaExplosion
In De Blasio’s defense, logically speaking, perhaps it’s possible a bomb could be intentional but not intended to kill civilians if it aimed to destroy property. The bomb was placed in or near a dumpster.
As of now, there are no known perpetrators or assailants behind the attack. However, many popular figures among the alt-right–a right-wing movement supportive of Donald Trump’s candidacy–are already blaming Muslims for the attack.
Was just thinking it had been a while since Muslims blew us up for no reason. #ChelseaExplosion
They'd rather watch Americans die at the hands of Muslims than admit they're living a lie about Islam.#Chelsea https://t.co/vynN0DUyGF
The attack occurred in the Chelsea neighborhood of lower Manhattan in New York City. Two devices were found near a dumpster at the site of the explosion, and 29 are known to have been injured.
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