Washington, D.C. | www.mpac.org | October 16, 2026— The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) unequivocally denounces the alleged attempted mass shooting targeting a Hindu Temple in Aurora, Illinois and stands in full solidarity with the Hindu community in the face of this disturbing threat of violence.
The radicalized 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis was arrested and charged with feloncy crimes on October 11 after law enforcement was tipped off by Paporakis's colleague concerning a potential mass shooting. Investigators subsequently discovered a rifle with ammunition, tactical equipment, and a manifesto titled “Why I Fought: A.K.A. (Aurora Shooter’s Manifesto)”. In the manifesto, Paporakis boasts himself to be a “sociopathic white supremacist Neo-Nazi filled with hatred, fantasizing about mass murder nearly every day.” The manifesto also included langauge that described Indians, Jewish people, and Black people as “subhumans” with planned attacks against each communtiy.
This attempted act of mass violence is a grave reminder of the danger posed by white supremacist extremism and the unfortunate reality that our current political climate has allowed such voices to be emboldened to carry out an act like this.
According to government and independent analyses, right-wing extremist violence has accounted for approximately 75% to 80% of U.S. domestic terrorism fatalities since 2001. This alarming trend demonstrates that extremist violence is not confined to any single religious or racial group, but poses a broader threat to communities across the country.
No community should have to fear for its safety while gathering in prayer or practicing its faith. As MPAC has repeatedly emphasized, an attack against any house of worship is an attack on the fundamental right to religious freedom and the principles of pluralism that define our nation.
MPAC commends the individual who reported the suspicious activity and the swift response of law enforcement, whose intervention prevented a devastating tragedy. We urge our interfaith partners and religious institutions nationwide to remain vigilant to right-wing extremism, maintain close and frequent communication with local law enforcement, and encourage congregants to report credible threats or suspicious activity. This incident demonstrates how one individual's willingness to come forward can save lives.
We stand firmly with the Hindu community in Illinois and across the country. Hatred directed at one community can quickly extend to others, making interfaith solidarity and collective action essential to ensuring that all Americans can worship without fear.
