Ryan Michael English, who prefers the name Riley Jane, was arrested Monday for allegedly plotting to kill high-ranking Republican officials.
The 24-year-old traveled from Massachusetts to Washington D.C., reportedly with the intention of targeting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. According to a Capitol police officer’s affidavit, English approached police at the Capitol, claiming he had knives and Molotov cocktails and wanted to surrender.
Authorities discovered another knife and “firebombs” in English’s possession during the investigation. English faces charges including the unlawful receipt, possession, or transfer of a firearm, and carrying a dangerous weapon, explosive, or incendiary device on Capitol grounds.
WWLP reported that English’s attorney sent a memo clarifying that English prefers to go by Riley Jane instead of Ryan Michael English.
In another case, Audrey Hale, a 28-year-old transgender woman, killed six people at a Nashville Christian school on March 27, 2023. Writings obtained by the Tennessee Star revealed that Hale left behind notes focusing on her “imaginary penis.” Hale, a biological female, allegedly wrote, “My penis exists in my head. I swear to god I’m a male.”
Hale described being raised as a girl as “torture” and expressed relief at finding the possibility of changing one’s gender. She was killed by Nashville Metropolitan Police on the second floor of the Christian school building. This tragic event has sparked discussions about mental health and gender identity issues.
AWR Hawkins, an award-winning Second Amendment columnist for Breitbart News, has been covering these stories. He writes and curates “Down Range with AWR Hawkins,” a newsletter focusing on Second Amendment topics. Hawkins is also a political analyst for Armed American Radio and a member of Gun Owners of America.
In addition, Hawkins serves as a Pulsar Night Vision pro-staffer and the director of global marketing for Lone Star Hunts. He was a Visiting Fellow at the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal in 2010. Hawkins holds a Ph.D. in Military History and is active on Instagram under @awr_hawkins.
These incidents highlight ongoing tensions and challenges in addressing political violence and mental health. The cases of English and Hale underline the complex issues surrounding intentions and actions of individuals in society. Understanding these narratives is crucial for developing effective responses to such threats.
Both situations have prompted reactions from various communities, emphasizing the need for vigilance and security.
The role of law enforcement and mental health professionals remains critical in preventing future tragedies. Society must assess and address the root causes of such actions to ensure safety and understanding.
As the nation navigates these challenges, the importance of maintaining a strong stance on law and order is evident. Addressing underlying issues with compassion and clarity is essential for moving forward.
The role of media in shaping public perception and discourse cannot be underestimated.