While police have not confirmed a motive, Fletcher's Ice Cream and Cafe in Minneapolis has a massive Pride flag hanging above its door and is known in the community for its inclusive environment. It is also on the same block as the home of Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor party, though it's unclear whether the suspect knew that.
Cahill noted the impact of toxic politics, stating that the Minneapolis City Council's comments and actions made the trial's environment even more challenging.