Police Officer, Suspect Killed In Incident At Pentagon: Report

Multiple People Shot After Gunman Opens Fire At Pentagon Transit Center

Photo: Getty Images

A Pentagon police officer and a suspect have both died following an incident at the Pentagon Transit Center Tuesday (August 3) morning.

Law enforcement sources told ABC News Austin William Lanz, of Georgia, stabbed Pentagon officer George Gonzalez in the head from behind, disarmed him and used the officer's gun to shoot him.

The source said Lanz was likely killed by a gunshot wound as a result of the incident, but it was unclear whether it was self-inflicted or by responding police.

At least one bystander was reportedly injured during the incident, law enforcement sources confirmed to ABC News.

The United States Marine Corps told ABC News Lanz had enlisted in the military branch on Oct. 9, 2012, but never earned the title of Marine after being administratively separated on Nov. 2, 2012.

In April, Lanz was arrested in Cobb County, Georgia and faced several charges including aggravated battery against police, rioting in a penal institution and making terrorist threats or acts, according to online county court records obtained by ABC News.

A judge ordered Lanz to undergo a mental health and substance abuse evaluation in relation to the charges and he was released from custody on a $30,000 bond.

The FBI is investigating the Pentagon incident and the FBI Atlanta office is also looking into Lanz, law enforcement sources confirmed to ABC News.

The Pentagon Force Protection Agency's verified Twitter account confirmed the Gonzalez's death Tuesday, keeping his identity anonymous until loved ones were notified and later announcing his end of watch on Wednesday (August 4) morning.

"Last night, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency observed End of Watch for Pentagon Police Officer George Gonzalez who was tragically killed yesterday during the incident at the Pentagon bus platform," the agency wrote. "A native of Brooklyn, New York, he was a die-hard Yankees fan. He was a graduate of New York City’s Canarsie High School. George Gonzalez joined the @PFPAOfficial as a police officer on July 22, 2018.

"As a Pentagon Police officer, he took our mission of “protecting those who protect our nation” to heart. He was promoted twice and attained the rank of Senior Officer in 2020. A gregarious officer, he was well-liked and respected by his fellow officers."


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