The Maryland gunman shot by U.S. Capitol Police Friday morning is facing several charges.
John Wesley Wheeler Jr., 29, of Suitland, has been charged with assault with intent to kill, carrying a pistol without a license, unregistered firearm and unregistered ammunition, and more federal charges are pending.
Wheeler is accused of approaching a Capitol Police officer in a marked scout car at Washington and Independence avenues in southwest D.C. before 5 a.m. Friday and pointing a gun at the officer, Capitol Police said. The officer evaded the gunman, who fled on foot.
Moments after that officer broadcast a lookout for the gunman, two other Capitol Police officers saw Wheeler, who pointed the gun at them, Capitol Police said. Fearing for their lives, those officers shot and wounded Wheeler at Second and C streets.
Wheeler was taken to an area hospital.
Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department are investigating. The two officers are on administrative leave pending the outcome.
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