Gunman Takes Hostages in Discovery Channel HQ

He has history of trouble with company
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Sep 1, 2010 1:28 PM CDT
Gunman Takes Hostages in Discovery Channel HQ
Police evacuate the street in Silver Spring plaza in front of the headquarters of the Discovery Channel.   (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

A gunman who had what police described as "concerns" with the Discovery Channel networks is holding a "small number" of hostages in the company's suburban Washington headquarters. Police are in negotiations with the man, who entered the building in Silver Spring, Md., wearing what appeared to be explosive devices. He also pulled out a handgun. Authorities say they have no confirmed reports of injuries.

Multiple reports identity the gunman as 43-year-old James Lee, who has a long history of protests against Discovery and its programming. Lee has demanded in the past that Discovery air prime-time shows devoted to saving the planet, and he has railed against the "filth" of humanity, reports CNN. The network operates not only the Discovery Channel, but TLC and Animal Planet.

(More Discovery Channel stories.)

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