Gunman Arrested After Sacramento TV Station Shooting, Chilling Anti-Trump Note Discovered

SACRAMENTO, CA — A disturbing shooting incident targeting a local television news station has sparked national concern after federal investigators uncovered a threatening note and an online trail of politically charged rhetoric.

On September 19, 64-year-old Anibal Hernandez-Santana was arrested by Sacramento police in connection with a drive-by shooting at the headquarters of ABC10, a major affiliate station in Northern California. Though no injuries were reported, bullets struck the building’s front windows, prompting a swift response from local and federal authorities.

Initial Arrest and Sudden Re-Arrest

Hernandez-Santana was initially booked into the Sacramento County Jail and released after posting a $200,000 bail. However, within hours, FBI agents took him back into custody under federal charges tied to threats against public officials and politically motivated violence.

According to the Department of Justice, the evidence uncovered in Hernandez-Santana’s vehicle and digital records pointed to a broader and more alarming agenda.

A Note Filled with Threats

Inside the suspect’s car, agents found a handwritten note that appeared to be a direct threat to several high-profile figures connected to the Trump administration. The message read:

“For hiding Epstein & ignoring red flags. Do not support Patel, Bongino, & AG Pam Bondi. They’re next. — C.K. from above.”

The note specifically named Kash Patel, Dan Bongino, and Pam Bondi—individuals associated with the Trump administration and conservative media. Investigators say the mention of “C.K.” is being analyzed but may be a reference to the late Charlie Kirk, who was recently assassinated during a public event in Utah.

Federal authorities have classified the case as a potential act of politically motivated domestic terrorism.

Digital Footprint Reveals Extremist Views

Federal investigators also reviewed Hernandez-Santana’s social media activity, which revealed a series of aggressive, anti-Trump messages. Posts from recent weeks showed increasing hostility toward conservative leaders and open support for violent action.

One particularly disturbing post read:

“Where is a good heart attack when we need it the most?? Please join in my thoughts and prayers for the physical demise of our fearful leader.”

Other messages revealed he was prepared to “fight like hell” against what he described as the “fascist agenda” of the Trump-aligned movement.

His defense attorney, however, claims Hernandez-Santana is being unfairly targeted due to his political opinions. “This is a man with strong beliefs, not a criminal mastermind,” the attorney said in a brief statement outside the courthouse.

Reaction From Federal Officials

Kash Patel, a former senior Trump official, responded publicly to the developments via his X (formerly Twitter) account. He confirmed that Hernandez-Santana remains in federal custody and praised law enforcement’s quick action.

“Targeted acts of violence, whether politically motivated or not, will be met with the full weight of federal law. We will not be intimidated,” Patel wrote.

Others named in the note have not yet commented publicly, though security around them has reportedly been increased.

Sacramento on High Alert

The incident came on the heels of unrest in Sacramento, where protests had erupted outside ABC10 following the suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. Kimmel faced backlash after making comments about the recent assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk—comments that were interpreted by some as mocking or politicizing the tragedy.

Local authorities are now reviewing whether the shooting was connected to the protests, or if Hernandez-Santana acted independently.

“The climate is tense, and unfortunately we’re seeing people cross dangerous lines,” said Sacramento Police Chief Melissa Swanson. “We are treating this as both a criminal act and a public safety threat.”

Grief Still Fresh in Wake of Kirk’s Death

The fallout from Charlie Kirk’s assassination continues to cast a long shadow across the nation’s political landscape. His widow, Erika Kirk, spoke at a recent memorial service attended by thousands of supporters, sharing tender details of her final moments with her husband.

Fighting back tears, Erika recalled finding a single gray hair on Charlie’s head—something he never noticed. She also described the peace she saw on his face after he was shot.

“It was something so instant,” she told the crowd. “Like Jesus rescued him.”

Kirk’s death has become a rallying point for many on the right, with ongoing investigations into the suspect, Tyler Robinson, who has been charged with murder. Prosecutors have already announced plans to seek the death penalty.

Ongoing Investigation

Meanwhile, Hernandez-Santana’s case remains under active investigation. He is being held without bond and faces federal charges related to making threats against public officials, interstate communication of threats, and the use of a firearm in a violent crime.

Federal prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges as they continue to comb through the suspect’s digital footprint and potential connections to other extremist movements.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior, as political tensions across the country continue to escalate.