The offices of KXTV (ABC10) in Sacramento were struck by gunfire on Friday afternoon, as confirmed by Sacramento police Officer Anthony Gamble in a statement to Deadline. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during this alarming incident.
Just a day prior to the shooting, the KXTV building, which is an ABC affiliate owned by Tegna, became the focal point of a significant protest. This demonstration was in response to the network's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel Live! following controversial comments made by Kimmel regarding Charlie Kirk. At the time of the shooting, there were no protesters present at the site.
Police responded to the reports of shots fired at the television station shortly after 1:30 PM on Friday. Officer Gamble reported that at least three gunshots were fired from a passing vehicle, striking a window of the building, which was occupied at the time. Fortunately, the swift response from law enforcement ensured that no one was harmed.
As of now, Sacramento police do not have a description of the suspect vehicle or any suspects related to the shooting incident. Detectives are currently on the scene, actively investigating whether the shooting was a random act of violence or if it was targeted.
The protest outside KXTV on Thursday was part of a larger movement against ABC's suspension of Kimmel, with similar demonstrations taking place outside Disney studios in Burbank and in Hollywood, where Jimmy Kimmel Live! is filmed. Protesters in Sacramento held signs that read “First Amendment,” “Resist,” and “You’re Next,” indicating their strong sentiments regarding free speech and media censorship.
This incident comes amidst ongoing discussions about Kimmel's suspension and its implications for late-night television. Related topics include the potential for crew members of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to be compensated in the following week as negotiations continue to bring the show back on air. Furthermore, legal experts have weighed in on the situation, discussing the implications of political pressure on media outlets.
As the investigation progresses, updates will be provided to the public regarding both the shooting incident and the broader context surrounding the protests against Jimmy Kimmel's suspension.
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