Military News, News From Iraq & Afghanistan - Military Times

Suspect off ventilator, breathing on own

FORT HOOD, Texas — An Army spokesman says the man authorities say went on a shooting spree at Fort Hood has been taken off a ventilator but still remains in intensive care at a military hospital.

Spokesman Col. John Rossi told reporters late Saturday that he is not sure if Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan is able to communicate.

Officials refused to say if he was talking to investigators.

Hasan was shot during an exchange of gunfire Thursday at Fort Hood, when authorities said he opened fire, killing 13 and wounding 29 before he was shot.

At least 17 victims remained hospitalized with gunshot wounds, and nine were in intensive care late Saturday.

On Sunday, numerous church services honoring the victims were planned both on the post and in neighboring Killeen.

Military criminal investigators continue to refer to Hasan as the only suspect in the shootings but won’t say when charges would be filed.

“We have not established a motive for the shootings at this time,” said Army Criminal Investigative Command spokesman Chris Grey.

A government official, speaking on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to discuss the case, said an initial review of Hasan’s computer use has found no evidence of links to terror groups, or anyone who might have helped plan or push him toward the shooting attack. The review of Hasan’s computer is continuing and more evidence could emerge, the source said.

Brother makes statement

Hasan’s family described a man incapable of the attack, calling him a devoted doctor and devout Muslim who showed no signs that he might lash out.

“I’ve known my brother Nidal to be a peaceful, loving and compassionate person who has shown great interest in the medical field and in helping others,” said his brother, Eyad Hasan, of Sterling, Va., in a statement. “He has never committed an act of violence and was always known to be a good, law-abiding citizen.”

About the victims

Related stories

• Obama praises those who stopped shooter

• Cleric: ‘Something wrong’ with Hasan

• Work deeply affect Hood suspect, uncle says

• George, Laura Bush visit wounded Hood soldiers

• Hood community gathers to mourn victims

• Suspect in Hood shootings remains in coma

• Soldiers say carnage could have been worse

• Shooting suspect said goodbyes before attack

• Suspect was to deploy to Afghanistan

• Online support follows Hood shootings

• Tragedy assistance group was at Hood during shootings

• Muslim group condemns Hood shootings

• Shooting suspect was set to deploy

• Hasan among May 2009 officer promotions