Marine commandant blasts California shooting suspect’s ‘despicable’ actions

The commandant of the Marine Corps on Thursday condemned the ex-Marine suspected of carrying out a mass shooting in California, calling his actions “despicable.”

“Heartfelt condolences to those suffering from the tragic & senseless act of violence #ThousandOaks. That ex-Marine’s despicable actions run counter to what the vast majority of veterans are rightfully known for: serving w/ honor then making positive contributions to society,” Robert Neller, the commandant, wrote in a tweet.

Heartfelt condolences to those suffering from the tragic & senseless act of violence #ThousandOaks. That ex-Marine’s despicable actions run counter to what the vast majority of veterans are rightfully known for: serving w/ honor then making positive contributions to society

— Robert B. Neller (@GenRobertNeller) November 8, 2018

{mosads}Authorities on Thursday identified the suspected shooter as Ian David Long, a 28-year-old former Marine. Long was in the Marine Corps from 2008 through 2013 and spent seven months in Afghanistan. 

Authorities said Long stormed the Borderline Bar and Grill in Thousand Oaks, Calif., on Wednesday night and opened fire, killing 12 people.

Ventura County Sheriff Geoff Dean said Thursday that Long had several contacts with authorities, including once when he was reported for disturbing the peace, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Dean said authorities called mental health professionals because Long was “irate and acting irrationally” during that incident, according to the Times. The mental health professionals determined he didn’t need to be taken into custody.

Wednesday night’s shooting was the deadliest in California since 14 people were killed during an attack in San Bernardino in 2015.