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Security guard for Christian lobbying group shot in D.C.

Posted at 1:10 PM, Aug 15, 2012
and last updated 2012-08-15 14:34:33-04

WASHINGTON (CNN) — A shooting in the lobby of the conservative Family Research Council in Washington wounded a security guard Wednesday, investigators said.

The suspect, who the FBI said was in custody, made some comments about the organization before opening fire, a law enforcement official said. The official had no details on the specific remarks, but said at least one witness heard them.

Officials are interviewing the injured guard and others, the official said, describing the suspect as being in his late 20s.

The guard was shot in the arm and hospitalized, according to Metropolitan Police spokesperson Araz Alali.

No charges have been filed, and the FBI continues to investigate the motive and whether the shooting was linked to the Family Research Council, FBI spokeswoman Jacqueline Maguire said.

The case is being worked jointly by the FBI and the Metropolitan Police Department "to determine motive/intent and whether a hate crime/terrorism nexus exists," said Maguire.

Family Research Council President Tony Perkins said, "Our first concern is with our colleague who was shot today. Our concern is for him and his family."

Launched in 1983, the Family Research Council says it promotes "faith, family and freedom in public policy and public opinion."

Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy Lanier told reporters the gunman entered the building at the corner of 8th and G streets and opened fire when confronted by the guard.

The wounded guard and others wrestled the suspect to the ground. "The security guard did a phenomenal job," said Maguire.

CNN's Mike N. Ahlers contributed to this report.

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