Bogdan Vechirko, 35, of Otsego, Minn., was jailed Sunday evening on suspicion of assault and held in the Hennepin County jail until midday Tuesday in connection with his empty fuel tanker careening through a crowd marching to protest the May 25 death of George Floyd after being restrained by Minneapolis police.
The County Attorney's Office had until noon Tuesday to hold Vechirko without charges before they had to release him, pending further investigation, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said in a statement Tuesday.
Investigators continue to seek and examine information on the incident.
State Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington said Monday that the driver "panicked, and he just kept barreling forward" but did not breach any barriers put up to protect the protesters and was not aiming for anyone.
Witnesses at the scene are of a different mind, which is certainly understandable.
His wife has recorded a short video which can be found at the link.
Liudmila Vechirko, who is eight months' pregnant, says in Russian as subtitles roll below, "Due to multiple requests, I am recording this video for those who care and want to help our family." She then holds up a piece of paper with an address for a PayPal fundraising account.
Liudmila Vechirko adds that "our credit cards are frozen since they stole his wallet, phone and all the belongings in the truck's cabin. I am very thankful for all your open hearts."
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