Shooter Opens Fire at Family Research Council Offices Over Group's Policies; Wounds Guard
A man who entered the Family Research Council Offices in Washington, D.C., shot and wounded a security guard late Wednesday morning. The shooter is in custody and the guard is reported to be conscious and breathing.
The police chief called the security guard, Leo Johnson, a "hero" in stopping the gunman who apparently tried to gain access to the group's office posing as an intern. When the security guard attempted to stop the 28-year-old man from entering the building, he was shot in the arm.
"I would say the security officer here is a hero," D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier told reporters.
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Fox News reported that Johnson was able to take the gun away from the suspect who said, "Don't shoot me; it was not about you, it was what this place stands for."
It is also being reported that the gunman said he had "problems" with the group's policies.
FRC is a conservative nonprofit that advocates policy issues that impact the family and religious freedom issues.
Tony Perkins is the group's president and CEO quickly issued a statement that read:
"The police are investigating this incident. Our first concern is with our colleague who was shot today. Our concern is for him and his family."
Gary Bauer, a former presidential candidate and family advocate, issued a statement expressing his sadness of the incident.
"Men and women of faith must not be intimidated into silence. I am proud to stand with Tony Perkins and the FRC staff. We will proudly continue to fight the good fight for family, faith and freedom!"
The Christian Post will report further details once they are available.
