If you were alive at the time, you’d remember that the name was on everyone’s lips: John W. Hinckley Jr., the man who attempted to kill President Ronald Reagan in 1981. Although his attempt to assassinate President Reagan failed, Hinckley did shoot him in the chest and seriously injured James Brady, Press Secretary. A Secret Service agent, and a police officer were also wounded.
Hinckley was unconditionally freed on June 15. He was interviewed by CBS News with Major Garrett. The interview aired Tuesday. Hinckley expressed his regret.
I have true remorse for what I did. It is clear to me [the victims] probably can’t forgive me now, but I just want them to know that I am sorry for what I did.
The man who committed such a horrible crime claimed that he no longer exists.
This person is psychologically dead. I’m a completely different person in mind and spirit.
Although it may seem so, James Brady was left paralysed in the attack. LiterallyHe was killed as a result. (A medical examiner ruled Brady’s 2014 death a homicide caused by the shooting, even though it had occurred decades earlier.) Brady, his wife Sarah Brady started the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence to improve gun laws.
It’s hard to understand how Hinckley is walking around as a free man.
Hinckley claimed that he couldn’t remember what happened.
It’s such another lifetime ago. I can’t tell you now the emotion I had right as (Reagan) came walking out. I can’t tell you that.
It’s something I don’t want to remember.
FREEDOM AT LAST after 41 years, 2 months, and 15 days!!
— John Hinckley (@JohnHinckley20) June 15, 2022
Reagan’s daughter Patti Davis opposed Hinckley’s release, saying he was a narcissist who did not feel remorse.
In the CBS News interview he did, however, apologize to those he had shot, as well as to actress Jodie Foster, whom he said he had a “delusional obsession” with and hoped to impress by killing the president. Major Garrett, the interviewer, noted that Foster and the family of the victims had not responded to requests for comment.
Hinckley is now 67 and lives in Williamsburg. She dreams of a career as a musician. Security concerns forced Hinckley to cancel three of his scheduled shows. “I don’t know anybody else who’s certainly had a life like I’ve had,” Hinckley said. “I mean, what I tell people now, if you want to get to know John Hinckley, listen to his songs.”
However, it would appear that he could use some assistance:
I’m looking for a drummer, bass player, and lead guitarist to be in my band. Get in touch [email protected]
— John Hinckley (@JohnHinckley20) June 26, 2022
Hinckley now lives completely unsupervised and unmonitored. He can fill his days however he pleases. He mentioned in the interview he is still on two psychotropic drugs, though, so it’s hard to know how mentally fit he is. The fact that an American president was almost shot to death by a man walking freely in the streets seems absurd.
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