The suspect accused of opening fire at a Washington media gala attended by US President Donald Trump will be arraigned on Monday, April 27, in the US capital, federal prosecutors have confirmed.
The incident occurred on Saturday during the high-profile event, where the suspect reportedly exchanged gunfire with Secret Service agents before being taken into custody. Authorities said the suspect was not injured.
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro disclosed that the defendant will face charges including the use of a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. The suspect is expected to appear before a US District Court judge.
Speaking after the incident, Trump said the attack would not deter him from continuing the ongoing war effort involving Iran, adding that there was no clear indication the shooting was linked to the conflict.
“It’s not going to deter me from winning the war in Iran. I don’t know if that had anything to do with it — I really don’t think so, based on what we know,” he told reporters at the White House.
The president had earlier suggested that investigators were still working to determine a motive, describing the suspect as a “lone wolf” and noting that “you never know” regarding possible links.
Following the incident, Trump also cancelled a planned trip by US envoys to Pakistan for peace talks with Iran, citing dissatisfaction with Tehran’s stance after nearly two months of conflict.
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing.
AFP
