General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Waukesha Massacre: As it happened per the criminal complaint [View all]The Magistrate
(95,243 posts)It does seem he aimed at groups of women in the parade. That could be chance, certainly, but it also could be a target of opportunity, so to speak.
On the other hand, it is true 'terrorism' is a pretty useless term, telling you more about the person using it that the act. When someone calls an act terrorism, they are saying they do not approve of the political aims behind an act of violence, usually but not always by a non-state actor. A person who approves of the aim will use other terms, such as 'legitimate act of war' or 'revolutionary necessity', that sort of thing. It will still be an explosion triggered in a crowded market square. I am not aware of evidence the man had any particular political aim, but do not think it can be ruled out completely at this stage.