By Steve Neavling
ticklethewire.com
The FBI has taken over the investigation of a 66-year-old gunman who opened fire at a congressional baseball team, shooting four people including high-ranking Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., who was in critical condition Wednesday night.
James T. Hodgkinson, a harsh critic of President Trump, was killed in a gun battle with police.
The FBI is investigating the background of shooter, his associates, social media activity and potential motivations.
According to the New York Times, Hodgkinson was living out of his van in the Northern Virginia suburbs and often posted venomous criticisms of Trump on Facebook.
In the meantime, the ATF is tracing the history of the rifle and handgun used in the attack.
Dale Walsh, a friend of Hodgkinson, said the man was vibrant and positive when he was younger.
“He wasn’t evil,” Walsh said. “I guess he was tired of the politics.”
