An off-duty United States Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint in Tustin, California, shortly after President Joe Biden's fundraiser event in Southern California.
NBC Los Angeles reported that the agent fired his service weapon, but it is unclear if the suspect was hit. The robbery took place at the Tustin Field residential community in Orange County on Saturday night at around 9:30 p.m.
A 2004-2006 Silver Infinity FX35 was seen fleeing the area immediately after the incident.
United States Secret Service officials confirmed to NBC News that the off-duty agent was not injured during the robbery.
The agent's belongings were partially recovered near the scene. It is still uncertain whether the suspect was injured by the agent’s gunfire.
The robbery occurred about an hour after a high-profile fundraising event in downtown Los Angeles. The event aimed to raise millions for President Joe Biden's reelection campaign and was attended by former President Barack Obama and various Hollywood celebrities.
The exact role or assignment of the agent on the night of the incident remains unclear. The encounter in Tustin happened close to the end of a busy evening marked by heightened security and significant public attention due to the fundraiser.
The U.S. Secret Service has yet to provide detailed information on the status of the suspect. Despite firing his service weapon in self-defense, the agent could not determine if the shots hit the suspect.
Witnesses reported seeing the suspect fleeing in what appeared to be a Silver Infinity FX35, model years 2004-2006. This detail was essential for the subsequent police investigation.
The Tustin Police Department is encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They have stressed the importance of community assistance in resolving the case.
"A United States Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint in Tustin over the weekend shortly after President Joe Biden held a glitzy fundraiser in Southern California," police said.
The confirmation of the incident by U.S. Secret Service officials to NBC News underscores the gravity of the situation and the attention it has garnered.
Some members of the Tustin Field residential community have expressed concerns about safety following the incident. The typically quiet neighborhood was disrupted by this unexpected and alarming event.
The recovery of some of the agent's belongings near the scene gave a glimmer of hope, but the community remains on alert. Police patrols in the area have increased as a precaution.
The incident, happening shortly after the fundraiser, has prompted discussions among law enforcement agencies about potential measures to enhance security, even during off-duty hours. The implication of such an event involving a Secret Service agent brings additional scrutiny and urgency to the investigation.
U.S. Secret Service’s protocol usually keeps agents’ activities highly confidential, but this incident has highlighted the risks they face, even when not on duty.
For now, the focus remains on identifying and apprehending the suspect. The police and Secret Service officials continue to gather evidence and encourage public cooperation.
Anyone with information about the incident or who noticed the described vehicle around the time of the robbery is urged to contact the Tustin Police Department immediately.
In conclusion, an off-duty Secret Service agent was accosted and robbed at gunpoint in Tustin, California, following President Joe Biden's fundraising event.
Although the agent fired his weapon, it remains unclear if the suspect was injured. The police are actively investigating and appealing to the public for any information that could assist in resolving the case.
This event underscores the unpredictable dangers faced by law enforcement personnel, even off duty, and has spurred discussions about improving safety measures for agents. Community involvement is crucial in ensuring swift justice and restoring a sense of security in the affected neighborhood.
