What We Know About Gunman Stephen Paddock

Authorities haven't declared a motive for Vegas shooter; brother 'dumbfounded'
By John Johnson,  Newser Staff
Posted Oct 2, 2017 10:00 AM CDT
Gunman's Brother 'Completely Dumbfounded'
Drapes billow out of broken windows at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Monday.   (AP Photo/John Locher)

The media is scrambling to get information about the 64-year-old identified as the gunman in what's now the worst mass shooting in American history. As of Monday morning, however, details about Stephen Paddock and any possible motive were scant. A brother who lives near Orlando, Fla., says he's "completely dumbfounded," per the Sentinel. "We have absolutely no idea," says Eric Paddock of the reason behind the shooting spree. "When you guys find out why this happened, let us know. I have no idea whatsoever." Here's what's out there:

  • Mesquite: Paddock lived in Mesquite, Nev., about 80 miles northeast of Las Vegas. USA Today reports that he's owned a home since 2015 in an upscale retirement community complete with an 18-hole golf course. His home was being searched Monday.

  • No criminal history: Police in Mesquite say they've had no previous contact with Paddock, while police in Las Vegas say there's been nothing beyond a minor traffic violation, reports the New York Times.
  • ISIS claims responsibility: The Islamic State, meanwhile, claimed responsibility for the attack and said Paddock converted several months ago, but it provided no evidence to back up the assertion, reports the AP. The FBI later made clear it has found no connection between Paddock or any terrorist organization.
  • Pilot: NBC News reports that Paddock had his pilot's license and owned two planes. He also had a hunting license in Alaska. Police found more than 10 guns in his hotel room at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.
  • Companion: Police tracked down a female companion named Marilou Danley, 62, but they say she has been cleared in the shooting. Paddock checked into the hotel through Danley's ID, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She has been described as Paddock's roommate or girlfriend.
(More Stephen Paddock stories.)

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