Gunfire shattered the calm of a Sacramento afternoon as the ABC10 station became the target of a violent attack.

A suspect, identified as Anibal Hernandez Santana, is now in custody facing both federal and state charges after allegedly firing into the lobby of the ABC10 building on Friday, leaving a threatening note that named prominent figures such as Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI leaders Kash Patel and Dan Bongino as future targets, as the affiliate itself reports.

The incident unfolded on Friday afternoon when at least three shots struck the ABC10 station lobby in Sacramento. Fortunately, despite staff being present inside, no injuries were reported. The attack sent shockwaves through the local media community.

Shocking attack unfolds

Sacramento police responded swiftly, arresting Hernandez Santana hours after the shooting on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, shooting into an occupied building, and negligent discharge of a firearm. He initially posted bail on Saturday but was soon rearrested by the FBI on federal charges. This rapid sequence of events highlighted the severity of the incident.

According to a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California, investigators found a dark-colored satchel seen on surveillance footage worn by the suspect. Inside, they discovered a Sub Compact 9mm handgun. A gun residue test on Hernandez Santana also returned a presumptive positive result.

Further evidence emerged from a search of his car, where authorities found a handwritten note that read, “For hiding Epstein & ignoring red flags. Do not support Patel, Bongino, & AG Pam Bondie. They’re next. -- C.K. from above.” This chilling message raised alarms about potential future threats.

Disturbing notes reveal intent, additional threats

Inside Hernandez Santana’s home, detectives also found a whiteboard planner on his refrigerator with a note under Friday’s date that said, “Do the Next Scary Thing.” This added to the unsettling nature of the case. It suggested a premeditated mindset leading up to the shooting.

The FBI conducted a probable cause arrest that same night, charging Hernandez Santana with violating a federal statute related to interfering with federally licensed stations. By Monday, additional federal charges were added, including possession of a firearm within a school zone and discharge of a firearm within a school zone. These charges underscored the broader implications of the incident.

Patel publicly condemned the act on X, stating, “Targeted acts of violence are unacceptable and will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.” His statement reflected the federal government’s firm stance against such attacks. It also emphasized the priority given to protecting media entities.

Federal, state charges pile up

On Monday, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office announced they would file felony charges against Hernandez Santana as well. These state charges include discharging a firearm into an inhabited dwelling and assault with a semi-automatic firearm, along with an allegation of personal use of a firearm. If convicted on these state charges, he faces up to 17 years in state prison.

Hernandez Santana is scheduled to appear in federal court on Monday at 2 p.m. He will also face proceedings in Sacramento County Superior Court for the local charges. This dual legal process illustrates the complexity of the case spanning both jurisdictions.

His attorney, Mark Reichel, indicated efforts to secure bail for his client once again. This legal strategy comes despite the gravity of the charges and the suspect’s prior release on bail. It remains to be seen how the courts will respond to this request.

Legal battles loom in two courts

The attack on ABC10 has sparked broader concerns about the safety of media professionals and the potential targeting of public figures. The names mentioned in the suspect’s note -- Patel, Bongino, and Bondi -- have drawn attention to the personal risks faced by individuals in the public eye. This incident serves as a stark reminder of such dangers.

Community and law enforcement officials alike are grappling with the motivations behind this violent act. The evidence, including the threatening notes and firearm-related findings, paints a troubling picture of intent. Authorities continue to investigate any underlying reasons or connections that may have led to this event.

As the legal proceedings unfold in both federal and state courts, the Sacramento community remains on edge. The outcome of Hernandez Santana’s cases could set significant precedents for how similar acts of violence against media outlets are handled. For now, the focus remains on ensuring justice and safety for all involved.