Special Agents from the FBI Jacksonville Division have identified Stephen Cometa as the subject involved in a shooting at The Villages VA Outpatient Clinic in Summerfield, Florida on Tuesday, December 13, 2016.

During an initial appearance in federal court Tuesday afternoon, Cometa was charged with forcible assault of a federal employee and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. A copy of the formal criminal complaint is attached.

The investigation revealed Cometa entered the facility at approximately 9 a.m. 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. No additional comments can be made by the FBI at this time. The case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.