My take: T-Mac looking for a publicity stunt because he IS looking at 2020. Time as Gov is running out. Setup with Leftist mayor in C’ville, “alt-right” had permit - looked like a good opportunity to jab Trump & Repubs. I don’t think he expected dead people. FOIA might have interesting results & State Police have disagreed with T-Mac on a few points so all is not as it appears on the surface. McAuliffe is 100% scumbag.
Remember, he was SUPPOSED to be taking Kaine’s job after HRC won, and the mayor HIS job. But that’s all in the past now :)