The assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, occurred on March 30, 1981, just 69 days into his first term. The incident took place outside the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. Here are the key details:
Background
- Assailant: John Hinckley Jr., said to be mentally unstable and obsessed with actress Jodie Foster, carried out the attack. He believed that by assassinating the president, he could gain her attention and affection.
The Incident
- Event Location: President Reagan was leaving the Washington Hilton Hotel after delivering a speech to the AFL-CIO’s Building and Construction Trades Department.
- Shots Fired: At approximately 2:27 p.m., as Reagan and his entourage exited the hotel, Hinckley fired six shots from a .22 caliber revolver.
- Victims:
- James Brady: Reagan’s press secretary, was struck in the head and critically wounded, resulting in lifelong disabilities.
- Timothy McCarthy: A Secret Service agent, was shot in the abdomen while protecting the president.
- Thomas Delahanty: A D.C. police officer, was hit in the neck.
- Ronald Reagan: The final shot ricocheted off the presidential limousine and struck Reagan under his left arm, lodging in his lung and narrowly missing his heart.
Immediate Response
- Medical Attention: Reagan was swiftly transported to George Washington University Hospital. Despite initial underestimation of his injuries, it was quickly recognized that he was in serious condition.
- Surgery: Reagan underwent emergency surgery to remove the bullet and treat the lung injury. He made a full recovery, displaying remarkable resilience and humor throughout his hospitalization.
Aftermath
- John Hinckley Jr.: Hinckley was arrested at the scene and later found not guilty by reason of insanity. He was committed to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington, D.C., and remained under psychiatric care until 2016, when he was released under strict conditions.
- James Brady: Brady’s severe injuries led to his becoming an advocate for gun control. The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, often known as the Brady Bill, was named in his honor and signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1993.
- Security Measures: The assassination attempt led to significant changes in Secret Service protocols and security measures for protecting the president and other high-profile officials.
Legacy
- Public Perception: Reagan’s calm and composed demeanor during and after the incident bolstered his public image. His humor, exemplified by his quip to the surgeons, “I hope you’re all Republicans,” endeared him to many.
- Gun Control Debate: The incident had a lasting impact on the national debate over gun control, highlighting the need for stricter regulations on firearm sales and ownership.
- Historical Significance: The attempt on Reagan’s life is remembered as a pivotal moment in U.S. history, underscoring the vulnerability of public figures and the importance of mental health awareness.
The assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan remains a significant event, illustrating the interplay between political leadership, personal safety, and public policy.