Grandson of Man Who Shot Black Teen Says His Grandpa is Racist

Nationwide — The grandson of the 84-year-old white man, Andrew Lester, who shot a 16-year-old Black boy named Ralph Yarl when he mistakenly knocked on his door in Kansas Metropolis, Missouri, says that his grandfather is a racist conservative Trump supporter. Klint Ludwig spoke out in opposition to his grandfather throughout in an interview on CNN, calling the assault a “horrible tragedy” and stated he was “disgusted” by his actions.

Ludwig claimed his grandfather had develop into conspiratorial and made “bizarre racist issues” after watching conservative media retailers reminiscent of FOX Information. He accused Lester of getting “racist tendencies” and changing into radicalized by poisonous views during the last 5 years.

Yarl mistakenly arrived at Lester’s residence in Kansas Metropolis whereas making an attempt to choose up his youthful siblings who have been staying at a unique handle. When Yarl rang the doorbell, Lester answered the door whereas armed with a loaded revolver and fired at Yarl by means of a glass door. Yarl was hit within the head and the precise arm, however he survived. Lester informed police he thought the teenager was making an attempt to interrupt into his residence after he noticed Yarl yanking on the outer door deal with. Yarl gave a unique story to investigators, saying he by no means pulled on the door deal with and was patiently ready for somebody to reply the bell he rang.

Lester has been charged with first-degree assault and armed legal motion and pleaded not responsible. He surrendered to police, appeared in court docket, and later posted $200,000 bail earlier than being launched from jail. Yarl’s lawyer, Lee Merritt, posted a photograph of the 2 again at Ralph’s residence, indicating that he’s doing nicely. In the meantime, Ludwig spoke out about his grandfather’s actions, saying that folks want to talk out and never make any excuses for this type of conduct and violence.