Full Breakdown
Shooting at Sacramento ABC Affiliate Linked to Political Motive
9/23/2025, 1:53:19 AM
Incident Overview
On September 19, 2025, Anibal Hernandez Santana, a 64-year-old retired lobbyist, allegedly opened fire at the KXTV ABC10 television station in Sacramento, California. The incident occurred shortly after 1:30 PM, when Hernandez Santana reportedly fired three shots into the building's lobby, which was occupied at the time, although no injuries were reported. The shooting took place a day after protests occurred outside the station regarding the indefinite suspension of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" following comments made by Kimmel about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Motive and Evidence
Authorities have indicated that the shooting may have been politically motivated. Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho stated that there is "circumstantial evidence" suggesting a political motive behind the attack. Investigators found a handwritten note in Hernandez Santana's vehicle that referenced Jeffrey Epstein and included threats against high-ranking officials in the Trump administration, specifically mentioning FBI Director Kash Patel, Deputy Director Dan Bongino, and Attorney General Pam Bondi. The note concluded with the ominous phrase, "they're next," which Ho believes refers to Charlie Kirk.
Additionally, a calendar found in Hernandez Santana's home contained a reminder for September 19 that read, "Do the Next Scary Thing." This has raised concerns about his intentions and mental state leading up to the shooting.
Legal Proceedings
Hernandez Santana was initially arrested and charged with assault with a deadly weapon, shooting into an occupied building, and negligent discharge of a firearm. He posted $200,000 bail shortly after his arrest but was rearrested by the FBI just hours later on federal charges, including possessing a firearm within a school zone and interfering with a radio communication station. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 17 years in state prison and up to five years in federal prison.
His defense attorney, Mark Reichel, has expressed skepticism about the motives behind the federal charges, suggesting that the government may be using the case to make a political statement. Reichel noted that it is "remarkably uncommon" for someone to face simultaneous state and federal charges for the same conduct, asserting that Hernandez Santana is entitled to due process and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Community and Official Reactions
The shooting has sparked outrage and concern within the community, particularly regarding the safety of journalists. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the attack, stating that any violence against journalists is an attack on democracy itself. The parent company of ABC10, Tegna, confirmed that all employees were safe and announced increased security measures at the station.
In the wake of the shooting, law enforcement has emphasized the importance of addressing threats against the media, with Sacramento police thanking the FBI for their assistance in the investigation. The incident has raised broader questions about political violence and the safety of journalists in the current political climate.
What's Next
Hernandez Santana is scheduled to appear in court for both state and federal charges in the coming days. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to assess the motives behind the shooting and the implications for media safety in the United States.
