Forensics Identify Apple Cider Vinegar as Substance Sprayed on Rep. Ilhan Omar at Minneapolis Town Hall

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Federal investigators say the liquid sprayed on U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar during a tense town hall meeting in north Minneapolis was most likely apple cider vinegar, according to law enforcement sources briefed on the forensic analysis.

The determination came hours after a chaotic scene unfolded Tuesday evening when a man rushed toward the congresswoman as she addressed constituents, spraying a liquid substance before being subdued by security. Despite the disruption, Omar continued the event, underscoring what her office later described as a refusal to be intimidated.

Incident Caught on Video

Video footage circulating online shows the suspect surging forward from the audience while Omar was speaking. Security personnel quickly intervened, tackling the man to the ground and escorting him out of the venue.

Authorities identified the suspect as Anthony J. Kazmierczak, 55, who was taken into custody and booked into the Hennepin County jail on suspicion of third degree assault. Law enforcement officials have since indicated that the case is expected to move into federal jurisdiction, with the Federal Bureau of Investigation now leading the investigation.

CNN confirmed Wednesday, citing a law enforcement source, that preliminary forensic testing indicated the liquid used in the attack was likely apple cider vinegar.

Omar Continues Town Hall Despite Attack

According to her office, Omar declined requests from staff to pause the event or change her clothes after the incident. She instead resumed speaking with attendees, remaining on stage for the duration of the town hall.

“The Congresswoman is okay,” Omar’s office said in a statement. “She continued with her town hall because she doesn’t let bullies win.”

The town hall had been intended as a community discussion on policy priorities and constituent concerns. Attendees later described a sense of shock followed by resolve as Omar returned to the microphone.

Federal Charges Likely

While Kazmierczak was initially booked locally, officials say charges will likely be pursued in federal court, given the nature of the incident and Omar’s status as a sitting member of Congress. Investigators are reviewing video evidence, witness statements, and the suspect’s online activity as part of the inquiry.

CNN has reported that Kazmierczak has a history of posting politically charged content on social media, including posts ridiculing Omar’s support for defunding police efforts in 2021.

Political Context and National Reaction

The attack occurred just hours after President Donald Trump mentioned Omar during a campaign rally in Iowa. In remarks that drew swift criticism, Trump referenced Omar’s background and dismissed her legitimacy.

Following the release of video from the town hall, ABC News reported that Trump was asked whether he had seen the footage of the incident. He responded by denying interest in Omar and suggesting, without evidence, that the attack may have been staged.

Trump’s comments prompted condemnation from several elected officials and advocacy groups, who described them as inflammatory in the wake of a violent incident targeting an elected official.

Family Reaction and Apology

Kazmierczak’s nephew, Shepard Yzermans, told reporters he was not surprised by his uncle’s actions, describing him as intensely rigid in his political beliefs.

“He’s very devout in his political views and he hasn’t exactly been the most kind person,” Yzermans said. “She’s just a symbol for something he doesn’t like.”

Yzermans also confirmed that his uncle struggles with substance abuse and has a lengthy criminal history dominated by traffic offenses, including at least ten DUI convictions. He said the family has since written a letter of apology to Omar’s office.

“We are not those kinds of people,” Yzermans said, adding that he had not spoken to his uncle in at least a year. “I don’t think she deserves that and we should be treating each other with dignity and respect.”

Ongoing Investigation

Federal authorities have not yet announced formal charges but emphasized that the investigation remains active. Officials are expected to release additional details once charging decisions are finalized.

For now, Omar has continued her public schedule, with her office reiterating that intimidation and violence will not deter her from engaging directly with constituents.

MinneapoliMedia