Police are investigating gunfire outside the home and campaign office of Daniel Hernandez, a survivor of the 2011 mass shooting in Tucson and a candidate for the U.S. House.
In a June 12 post on X, Hernandez wrote: “Earlier this evening, a campaign staffer’s car was struck by gunfire just outside our home, which also serves as our campaign headquarters. We are all shaken, and everyone is safe. Bullet casings were found at the scene. We are working closely with local authorities, who are actively investigating, and we are committed to ensuring those responsible are held accountable.”
“While the motive remains unknown, the fact that this happened just steps from where my family sleeps and our team works is deeply unsettling. As a gun violence survivor, I know this fear all too well—and over the years, my family and I have endured repeated death threats.
“Our family, our staff, and our supporters deserve to feel safe. Violence and intimidation have no place in our politics.”
Tucson Police spokesman Sgt. Richard Gradillas said the case is under investigation. The call came in at around 5:15 p.m. as a vandalism case in the area of South 10th Avenue and West 22nd Street. It’s too early to determine whether the Hernandez household was targeted or whether it was a random act, he said.
Hernandez is credited for saving the life of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in the mass shooting on Jan. 8, 2011 in Tucson. Giffords was shot in the head and six people were killed. In the immediate aftermath, Hernandez, who was Giffords’ intern, gave her first aid.
Hernandez, a Democrat, is running for Congress in the special election in Congressional District 7 in a crowded race with 12 candidates in the primary.
Some of the other candidates posted comments on social media.
“My thoughts are with the Hernandez family and campaign team tonight. I’m relieved to learn that everyone is safe. We deserve safe communities free from gun violence,” Adelita Grijalva said on X.
Patrick Harris Sr. said on X: “I strongly condemn the shooting that took place at the Hernandez’ home, and I am grateful that no one was hurt. This kind of violence has no place in politics. People should be able to run for office, speak out, and serve their communities without being afraid for their safety.”
Hernandez is also a former state lawmaker, and his sisters Alma and Consuelo Hernandez are currently state representatives.
In the statement shared on X, Hernandez said they will share more information when it becomes available.
He added: “We will not be deterred.”
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