The 2002 Beltway Sniper Attacks

Name: The 2002 Beltway Sniper Attacks
Start: 2002-10-02
Location: Unspecified

An Overview of the Beltway Sniper Attacks

What Were the Beltway Sniper Attacks?

The Beltway Sniper Attacks were a series of coordinated shootings that struck the Washington metropolitan area, including Maryland and Virginia, from October 2 to October 22, 2002. Over the course of these three weeks, the snipers killed 10 individuals and injured three others, causing widespread fear and panic among residents.

Timeline of the Attacks

The attacks began on October 2, 2002, when the first victim was shot near a Michaels craft store in Aspen Hill, Maryland. This was just the start of a terrifying spree. The random nature of the shootings, often occurring in public spaces, left the community in shock. The sniper would typically engage from a distance, ensuring anonymity and evading capture.

The Investigation and Capture of the Snipers

Law Enforcement's Response

The policing agencies worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspects. Numerous leads were followed, and the FBI partnered with local law enforcement agencies, advancing their investigation significantly. They employed various tactics, including the use of surveillance technology and community outreach to gather information from the public.

Ending the Nightmare

The surge of panic ended on October 24, 2002, when police arrested John Allen Muhammad and his teenage accomplice, Lee Boyd Malvo, following a tip-off. The capture was part of an extensive manhunt that spanned several states, officially bringing an end to the three terrifying weeks.

Fun Fact

The Snipers' Infamous Method

What made the Beltway Sniper Attacks particularly chilling was the use of a specialized, rented vehicle that allowed the shooters to remain hidden while they executed their horrifying plan. They often used a sniper's perch for their vantage point, which exemplified a unique approach to targeting victims.