During an initial appearance in federal court this week, 60-year-old Stephen Cometa of The Villages was formally charged with forcible assault of a federal employee and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The investigation revealed Cometa entered the VA Outpatient Clinic in The Villages at approximately 9 a.m. Tuesday and fired his weapon, but no one was injured. He was disarmed by staff members and patients, and held until additional law enforcement officers arrived and took him into custody.
“Thanks to the quick-thinking and brave actions of the VA clinic staff and patients to protect themselves and others, a potential tragedy was avoided and lives were saved,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “The FBI remains committed to this investigation, and we appreciate the assistance of our law enforcement partners including the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Veterans Affairs Police, Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).”
The ongoing investigation is being led by the FBI Jacksonville Division. The case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
To learn more about Cometa, click HERE
