NOT even the topnotch skill of an elite guard forming part of an agency embarking on the highest security level seemed enough to stop a burglar from robbing him at gunpoint in California where US President Joe Biden attended a fund-raising event.
In a report which first appeared in Scripps News, the unnamed US Secret Service agent was returning from a work assignment when a gun-wielding man approached and robbed him at gunpoint mid morning of Saturday near a residential community in Orange County.
According to a statement issued by the United States Secret Service, their agent managed to fire his service pistol, compelling the suspect to run towards a silver car which he used to escape – but not without bringing along the victim’s bag.
It was not certain though if the US Secret Service agent hit the burglar after he fired his gun. The police have yet to locate the suspect who immediately fled the scene.
“A member of the U.S. Secret Service was the victim of an armed robbery in Tustin, California late Saturday when returning from a work assignment. The employee discharged their service weapon during the incident but unknown if the assailants were struck. We are thankful that the employee did not sustain any injuries,” reads part of the statement.
“This remains an open and active criminal investigation and any additional comments must come from the primary investigative agency which is the Tustin Police Department. Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to call the Tustin Police Department Detective Melendrez at 714-573-3372,” it added.
President Biden was at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles for a fundraiser event on Saturday evening, after which he returned to his Los Angeles hotel.
The Tustin Police Department is still investigating the incident. (ANGEL F. JOSE)
