The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Suspect charged in deadly church shooting
The man accused of opening fire on a Taiwanese church congregation in California was charged Tuesday with first-degree murder and five counts of attempted murder for what a prosecutor called an effort to “execute” as many people as possible.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer also announced that David Chou, 68, of Las Vegas faces enhancements for “lying in wait” and use of a firearm, as well as four counts of possessing destructive devices with intent to kill or harm.
“We typically think of the person who hides in the bushes,” Spitzer said. “This case is about the person concealing themselves in plain view.”
Arraignment was expected Tuesday afternoon. Spitzer said he expected that public defenders will be appointed to represent Chou.
Authorities have said Chou - a U.S. citizen who authorities say grew up in Taiwan - was motivated by hatred of Taiwanese people. A federal hate crimes investigation is also ongoing.