Devendra Kumar
The investigation into the recent shooting at a suburban Dallas shopping center continues to uncover disturbing details about the suspected gunman, Mauricio Garcia. According to posts on a Russian social network, Garcia, 33, had planned the attack for weeks, researching when the site was busiest and posting photos of the area in mid-April. The posts also revealed a fascination with white supremacy and mass shootings, with Garcia describing the latter as a “sport.” Garcia’s online activity also included posting photos of Nazi tattoos on his arm and torso, including a swastika and the SS lightning bolt logo of Hitler’s paramilitary forces.
Garcia’s background is also painting a concerning picture. He was discharged from the US Army in 2008 due to mental health issues and had apparently been working as a security guard, according to neighbors and an Army official. Garcia’s online profile on OK.RU, a Russian social network, was identified by Aric Toler, director of training and research at bellingcat.com, through a search of active accounts with his birthdate located in the US. The Associated Press also verified the account, which featured an image of a traffic ticket with Garcia’s name and birthdate as well as paperwork from a motel where he stayed before the shooting.
Federal agents investigating the shooting are also reviewing Garcia’s online posts, according to a federal law enforcement official. The official said Garcia had a patch on his chest when police killed him that read “RWDS,” an acronym for “Right Wing Death Squad,” which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups. Investigators are also interviewing family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs and are examining his financial records and other electronic media.
Garcia’s military background is also receiving scrutiny. He joined the Army in 2008 but was terminated three months later without completing his initial training. The Army officials said he was kicked out due to mental health issues. Garcia received an “uncharacterized” discharge, which is common for recruits who do not make it through training or the first 180 days, according to a defense official. This type of discharge is not dishonorable and would not set off red flags or require any reports to law enforcement.
Neighborhoods where Garcia lived on the Dallas block reported that he worked as a security guard but did not know where. A woman who lived next door described Garcia as nice and polite, always friendly. Investigators have also searched a Dallas motel where Garcia had been staying ahead of the attack.