The man who broke into the home of U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tried to kill her husband, authorities said Oct. 28.
The suspect, David DePape, is being booked into jail on charges including attempted homicide, San Francisco Police Chief William Scott told a press conference.
DePape will also face assault with deadly weapon, elder abuse, burglary, and several other additional felonies, Scott said.
It wasn’t clear whether DePape has retained a lawyer.
Interim San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said she’s working with police and is prepared to file appropriate charges.
DePape broke into the Pelosi home in San Francisco early Friday, authorities said. Officers responded at approximately 2:27 a.m. and, upon arrival, observed Paul Pelosi, 82, and a man grappling over a hammer.
The suspect pulled the hammer away and “violently assaulted” Paul Pelosi. Officers tackled the suspect and took him into custody. They also rendered aid to Paul Pelosi.
Both DePape and Paul Pelosi were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Paul Pelosi is expected to make a full recovery, the office of Nancy Pelosi, also 82, said.
“The Speaker and her family are grateful to the first responders and medical professionals involved, and request privacy at this time,” her spokesman, Drew Hammill, said in a statement.
The motive for the attack is still being determined, according to Scott.
Authorities declined to answer any questions.
Nancy Pelosi was in Washington at the time of the break-in, according to her office and the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP).
Members of Congress React
A number of Nancy Pelosi’s colleagues said they were hoping Paul Pelosi recovers quickly.“All of us are deeply disturbed to hear about the home invasion and assault on Paul Pelosi, and we pray for his speedy recovery. Violent attacks are abhorrent and every criminal who commits such acts should be prosecuted to full extent of the law,” said Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), vice chairman of the House Republicans.
“My thoughts are with Speaker Pelosi and her family as her husband, Paul, recovers from the vicious, unconscionable attack in their home last night. This violence is unacceptable, and it should shock all decent Americans. Please join me in praying for Paul’s speedy recovery,” said Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.).
Others said they were upset and wanted the perpetrator convicted.
“I am angered by the attack on Paul Pelosi in his home, and am grateful to the law enforcement officers who responded. Political violence is unacceptable, and the perpetrator will be held accountable,” Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) said in a statement.
