A man in Colorado, claiming to be a Marine, allegedly attacked a television news reporter while demanding to know whether the reporter was a U.S. citizen. The incident took place on December 18, 2024, in Grand Junction, where Patrick Egan, 39, confronted KKCO/KJCT reporter Ja’Ronn Alex. Egan reportedly shouted, “I’m a Marine and I took an oath to protect this country from people like you!” before asking Alex, “Are you even a U.S. citizen?” He then allegedly added, “This is Trump’s America now!” before attempting to strangle Alex.
Egan, who was driving a taxi for a local company called Sunshine Rides, followed Alex for about 40 miles before arriving at the news station. Once there, Egan allegedly tackled and choked Alex, and it was only when several of Alex’s co-workers intervened that the assault stopped. Alex later told police he believed the attack was racially motivated, as he is Pacific Islander.
Egan has been charged with felony bias-motivated crimes and second-degree assault by strangulation, along with a misdemeanor count of harassment by following and ethnic intimidation. He was released on bond after being arrested. The incident has drawn strong condemnation from local officials, including Kelly Millan, the general manager of Sunshine Rides, who expressed regret over the harm caused to Alex and his colleagues. The company has suspended Egan pending a full investigation and has pledged to assist law enforcement in the matter.
According to Alex, the confrontation began when he was out reporting before returning to the news station. Egan allegedly began chasing him immediately after Alex exited his vehicle, demanding to see his identification. Surveillance footage reportedly captured part of the attack, which has further fueled the outrage surrounding the incident. Alex, who is originally from Detroit and a graduate of Clemson University, was unharmed but shaken by the ordeal.
This incident has sparked widespread concern, with many denouncing the violent and racially charged nature of the attack. Local authorities are continuing their investigation, and Egan is scheduled to appear in court on January 2, 2025, for the filing of his charges. The attack has also highlighted the ongoing tensions in the country, with the use of political rhetoric like “Trump’s America” being tied to acts of aggression and intimidation. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater respect and tolerance in society, particularly in a time of heightened political and social divisions.
