However, authorities have indicated that the attack was not politically motivated.
Rocky Granata, a 64-year-old father and grandfather, was visiting Crown Tire in Middletown, New Jersey, when he was attacked. Granata, who is recognized for driving a recreational vehicle adorned with signs supporting Trump and the MAGA movement, was struck multiple times in the head with a hand-held sledgehammer, resulting in "significant injuries," according to the police.
April 09, 2024
Following the assault, Granata was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for immediate medical attention. While unconfirmed reports on social media suggest that he is "recovering" and may have been discharged, official confirmation is yet to be received.
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During the incident, a woman was also injured after being pushed to the ground. She was subsequently transported to Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank via ambulance.
The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Michael Gonzales of Philadelphia, was apprehended by witnesses at the scene. Gonzales, known to both victims, was accused by Granata's daughter in a Facebook post: "Michael Gonzales tried to murder my father today with a hammer to the head 5 times."
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She further claimed that Gonzales and his mother "are a constant hazard" to her family, particularly her father. She urged for their arrest and charges for their alleged crimes. However, she later retracted her statements, asking her followers not to "threaten" Gonzales' mother.
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Despite the political affiliations of Granata, the police have stated that the attack was not due to his political views, but rather a personal dispute. This was echoed in another Facebook post shared by Granata's account: "It wasn’t about Trump at all, just a dispute."
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Gonzales has since been arrested and charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes. He is currently being held at Monmouth County Jail.
Granata's support for Trump was well-documented, as seen in a NJ.com video from January 2020, showcasing Granata and his Trump-themed vehicle.
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