Glowimages/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) – Authorities are increasingly concerned that a man sought in connection with a shooting incident near the White House last week could pose a threat to President Obama, ABC News has learned.
Police suspect that the suspect, Oscar Ramiro Ortega, of Idaho, is mentally ill; he has an extensive record, ranging from domestic violence to drug charges. Sources say a police investigation has uncovered evidence that suggests Ortega has a fixation on the White House.
At 9:30 p.m. Friday, police received reports of shots fired in the bustling area of 16th Street and Constitution Avenue.
Authorities would later find a car linked to Ortega. The suspect had fled, but what police discovered inside left them deeply concerned: an assault-style rifle and empty shell casings.
Police have been hunting him ever since.
It’s unclear whether Ortega is capable of launching a sophisticated attack, but police are still fearful of what he might do next.
Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio
