how did marvin heemeyer get in the bulldozer

Marvin Heemeyer is a name that has become infamous in the United States. In June 2004, he drove a bulldozer through the streets of a small town in Colorado, destroying buildings and vehicles in a rampage that lasted for over two hours. Many people have wondered how Heemeyer was able to obtain a bulldozer and how he was able to modify it to make it an instrument of destruction. This article seeks to answer those questions.

The Background

Marvin Heemeyer was a man who had long been frustrated by what he saw as unfair treatment by local government officials. In particular, he felt that they had conspired against him in a land dispute that had cost him his muffler shop business. Heemeyer had tried every legal means to seek redress, but he felt he had been repeatedly rebuffed. This led him to formulate a plan that would allow him to take revenge on those he perceived as his enemies.

The Bulldozer

Heemeyer obtained a bulldozer through a dealer in the Denver area. He wanted a robust machine that he could modify to withstand any obstacles he would encounter. He purchased a Komatsu D355A, a massive machine that weighed over 58 tons. This bulldozer had a top speed of only 7 mph, but it was built to last and was highly maneuverable.

The Modifications

Once Heemeyer had the bulldozer, he immediately began making modifications. He wanted it to be impervious to damage so he added layers of steel and concrete to the cab. He also added homemade armor to protect the bulldozer's critical points such as its radiator and hydraulic lines. He even went so far as to add gun ports so he could shoot at anyone who tried to stop him.

The Final Plan

Heemeyer's final plan was simple: he would use the bulldozer as a weapon to destroy the town's government buildings, including the town hall, police department, and library, along with the homes and businesses of those he felt had wronged him. He prepared for his attack by accessing property records and compiling a list of people he wanted to target.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Marvin Heemeyer's use of a bulldozer to carry out his rampage was a shocking and terrifying event. While we may never fully understand how he was able to obtain and modify the bulldozer, what is clear is that his actions were motivated by a deep sense of injustice. Heemeyer's story is a cautionary tale of how extreme anger can lead people to commit heinous acts. It serves as a reminder to us all of the importance of seeking peaceful means for resolving disputes.