Reagan Shooter’s Release Garners Strong Opinions with Locals

The man who tried to assassinate Ronald Reagan will be released after 35 years.

John Hinckley, Jr., was 25 years old when he shot Regan in front of a Washington D.C. Hilton Hotel.

A federal judge ordered Wednesday that Hinckley to be freed from psychiatric care. He’s going to be under the supervision of his 90-year-old mother in Virginia.

He also injured Reagan’s press secretary, secret service agent and a D.C. police officer. Everyone survived the attack, but his press secretary died in 2014 from the injuries he received from the shooting.

NewsChannel 3 Reporter Vicky Nguyen got public reaction.

“It’s a little absurd that he’s getting out. It almost seems be Nancy Reagan just passed away and you know Ronald Reagan has already passed away that it’s one of like he’s fine. He can get out now but I don’t agree with that 100%. He was found guilty by insanity and it’s a hard situation, we’ll see what happens,” said Sarah Schueler, a Los Angeles resident.

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute issued the following statement regarding the release of John Hinckley, Jr.:

“John Hinckley is responsible for the shooting of President Reagan and three other brave men. One died two years ago from the wounds he received. Contrary to the judge’s decision, we believe John Hinckley is still a threat to others and we strongly oppose his release. They are all lives that matter dearly to us”