A politically charged shooting at Sacramento’s ABC affiliate KXTV has raised alarms about escalating tensions in the U.S. media landscape. The suspect, retired California lobbyist Anibal Hernandez Santana, remains in federal custody without bail after allegedly firing three rounds into the station’s lobby on September 19, 2025 .
What Happened at KXTV?
On a quiet Friday afternoon, gunshots shattered the calm outside KXTV (ABC10), located at 400 Broadway in downtown Sacramento . Though no injuries were reported, the brazen attack sent shockwaves through the local journalism community and prompted a swift federal response .
– Name: KXTV (ABC10)
– Owner: Tegna Inc.
– Address: 400 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95818
– Affiliation: American Broadcasting Company (ABC)
Political Motivation Alleged
Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho stated he believes the attack was politically motivated. This assertion stems from evidence found in Hernandez Santana’s SUV, including:
- A copy of The Cult of Trump by Steven Hassan—a book analyzing Donald Trump’s use of psychological influence tactics
- A handwritten note accusing the Trump administration of “hiding Epstein and ignoring red flags”
- A chilling threat: “They’re next,” referencing top FBI officials and Attorney General Pam Bondi
- A planner entry dated the day of the shooting: “Do the Next Scary Thing”
Timeline of Events
Protests outside KXTV over Jimmy Kimmel Live! cancellation
Shooting at KXTV lobby (3 rounds fired)
Jimmy Kimmel Live! returns to air
Suspect denied bail in federal court
Why Was Jimmy Kimmel Live! Canceled?
The shooting followed protests against ABC’s temporary removal of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 18. Activists claimed the Trump administration pressured network affiliates—like Nexstar and Sinclair—to drop the show due to Kimmel’s political commentary . The program resumed broadcasting on September 23 .
Charges Against Hernandez Santana
| Charge Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Federal | Discharging a firearm during a crime of violence |
| Federal | Interstate threat against federal officials |
| State | Assault with a deadly weapon (no injuries) |
Hernandez Santana, 64, was initially released on state bail but was quickly re-arrested by the FBI on federal charges . A federal magistrate judge denied bail, citing “unreasonable danger to the community” .
Broader Implications
This incident reflects growing concerns about political violence targeting media institutions. With threats against journalists rising nationwide, the KXTV shooting underscores the vulnerability of local news outlets.
As investigations continue, authorities are examining whether the suspect acted alone or was influenced by broader extremist narratives. For more on press freedom in America, see our [INTERNAL_LINK:press-freedom-in-america].
