Metuchen Mayor 'Appalled,' Condemns Anti-Asian Violence

METUCHEN, NJ — Mayor Jonathan M Busch on Wednesday said he was “outraged” and “appalled” at reports of violence against the Asian American community, following the shooting in Georgia that left eight people dead, including six Asian women.

“Like many of you, Kathy and I are outraged and appalled at the continued reports of egregious violence throughout the country against the Asian American community since the start of the pandemic,” Busch said in a Facebook post.

“These are attacks on all of us and we acknowledge the pain, fear and anger that so many must be feeling right now.”

On Tuesday, a gunman opened fire at three massage parlors across the metro Atlanta area.

Police have charged Robert Aaron Long, 21, with the shootings.

Atlanta Police Chief Rodney Bryant said it was too early to determine the motive of the shooting.

However, Cherokee County Sheriff's Capt. Jay Baker said Wednesday the gunman admitted to the killings and blamed the massage parlors for fueling his sex addiction.

Read More Here: Metro Atlanta Massage Parlor Shootings: 5 Things To Know

In his statement, Busch said that racial bias and hostility "will not be tolerated and will be addressed immediately.”

The mayor said he spoke with Metuchen police chief "who assured me that while there is no specific threat to our community,” the department remains vigilant and will take immediate action, if necessary.

“Let's stand together in unity, speak out against racism, and support our neighbors during these difficult times,” said Busch.

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