The Story of Rally Runner: A Cardinals Superfan Charged in Jan. 6 Attack on Capitol
A St. Louis Cardinals Superfan Joins Capitol Attack Mob
A St. Louis Cardinals superfan known as Rally Runner has recently faced charges for his involvement in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. According to the Justice Department, wearing his iconic red face paint, Rally Runner used a riot shield to push against police officers and assist fellow rioters in advancing.
The Charges Against Rally Runner
Rally Runner, whose real name is Daniel Donnelly Jr., was charged with civil disorder, a felony, and several misdemeanor offenses related to the Jan. 6 attack. The charges include disorderly conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, impeding passage through the Capitol grounds, and theft of government property.
The Mascot of the Cardinals Turns Rebel
Known for his passionate support of the Cardinals, Daniel Donnelly Jr. has become a sort of mascot for the team. He would run laps outside Busch Stadium in all-red attire and face paint, believing that his jogs could bring more runs for the team.
Rally Runner’s Transformation
On Jan. 6, 2021, Daniel Donnelly Jr., now Rally Runner, appeared at the Capitol wearing a similar all-red outfit, but this time he added a red “Keep America Great” hat.
Rally Runner’s Role in the Attack
During the Jan. 6 attack, Rally Runner managed to acquire a riot shield from other rioters and positioned himself at the front of the line at the tunnel entrance of the U.S. Capitol building. Utilizing the shield, he held the line as rioters assaulted law enforcement officers with chemical irritants and projectiles. The complaint states that Rally Runner also served as a shield for other attackers.
Despite the confrontation, Rally Runner stood firm, inches away from the chaos, as the group of attackers pushed forward, with him leading the way. Later, he used the shield to push law enforcement officers back, aiding in the advancement of the rioters.
The Latest Developments in the Jan. 6 Investigation
The charges against Rally Runner come at a crucial juncture in the Justice Department’s investigation of the Jan. 6 attack. Over 1,000 individuals have been arrested so far in connection with the breach of the U.S. Capitol. Notably, former President Donald J. Trump was recently indicted for his role in attempting to overturn the 2020 election.
Rally Runner’s Bold Statements
Following the attack, Rally Runner uploaded a video on Facebook in which he proudly admitted his presence at the Capitol. He boasted about reaching the front lines and claimed that his strategy had proven successful in pushing further. In the video, Rally Runner can be seen wearing a red jacket, red high socks, and red pants.
A Dedicated Supporter of Trump and the Cardinals
It appears that Rally Runner had legally changed his name at one point to embrace his new identity. On his Facebook page, he expresses his support for Mr. Trump, shares videos of the Jan. 6 attack, and discusses his beloved Cardinals.
A “Spiritual” Break for Rally Runner
On June 14, Rally Runner announced that his rally runs, which he considers a “spiritual” act, would be going on a “sabbatical.”
Read More of this Story at www.nytimes.com – 2023-08-03 09:30:09
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