WASHINGTON — The civilian contractor suspected of killing 12 people in Monday’s assault at the Navy Yard sought assistance for mental illness as recently as a month ago, a federal law enforcement official said Tuesday.
Aaron Alexis, who was killed by police responding to the massacre, reported symptoms of paranoia including hearing voices, said the official who is not authorized to comment publicly.
It was not believed that he was ever declared mentally ill by a court. Such a finding would have prohibited him from purchasing a weapon.
The official said the 34-year-old suspected shooter paid about $540 to buy a 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition in recent days at a gun store in Virginia and took them to the Navy Yard Monday shortly before authorities believe he carried out the assault.
Source: USA Today
