Full Breakdown
Shooting Incident at ABC10 Station: Anibal Hernandez Santana Charged
9/26/2025, 10:54:10 AM
Overview of the Incident
On September 19, 2025, Anibal Hernandez Santana, 63, was arrested for allegedly firing multiple shots into the lobby of the KXTV/ABC10 station in Sacramento, California. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) charged him with three counts: possessing a firearm within a school zone, discharging a firearm within a school zone, and interfering with a radio communication station. The incident occurred while employees were present, but fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Details of the Shooting
According to court documents, Hernandez Santana first fired a shot into the air from his vehicle before driving to the front of the station and discharging three additional shots into the building's lobby. The location from which he fired the initial shot was within a designated school zone. Following the shooting, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and vehicle, uncovering handwritten notes that raised concerns about his mental state and potential motivations.
Background and Context
Prior to the shooting, Hernandez Santana exhibited alarming behavior, including an unannounced visit to a nearby elementary school, where he requested to read to children while dressed in military-style clothing. This visit reportedly frightened school staff, prompting them to alert authorities. Investigators later found notes in his home and car that expressed antagonism towards political figures and included references to an anti-Trump book.
Legal Proceedings
Hernandez Santana faces both federal and state charges. In addition to the federal charges, he is charged at the state level with assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied building, which could result in up to 17 years in prison if convicted. His attorney, Mark Reichel, has stated that he will seek bail under strict conditions, emphasizing Hernandez Santana's lack of prior criminal history and his positive background, including military service.
Official Statements & Responses
Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho characterized the shooting as a politically motivated attack, citing the notes found during the investigation. He expressed concerns for public safety, arguing that Hernandez Santana poses a danger if released. In contrast, Reichel asserted that Hernandez Santana is presumed innocent and entitled to due process, stating, "Mr. Hernandez Santana is entitled to due process - he is innocent unless and until he is found otherwise."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Hernandez Santana's release argue that the evidence suggests he may pose a threat to the community. The FBI has labeled him a "clear and present danger," and school officials have expressed fears for their safety should he be released. Meanwhile, Hernandez Santana has publicly denied being a violent person, stating, "I am not a violent man," and expressed a desire to clarify his perspective in court.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am not a violent man.” — Anibal Hernandez Santana
- “If he gets out of custody, we are scared for our school’s safety.” — School Staff Report
- “Mr. Hernandez Santana is entitled to due process - he is innocent unless and until he is found otherwise,” — Mark Reichel, Attorney
What's Next
Hernandez Santana is scheduled to appear in both federal and state court for further proceedings. Investigators continue to explore any potential connections between the shooting and recent controversies involving ABC and Disney, particularly the suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel following comments he made about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
