Arizona Man Arrested Near Trump Golf Course
A 36-year-old man from Arizona was apprehended by deputies in Los Angeles while allegedly running through traffic next to the Trump National Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Witnesses described him wearing a heavy-duty bulletproof vest and carrying a loaded rifle that was painted to resemble a toy based on Batman’s Joker character.
The individual, Shawn Steiner from Glendale, Arizona, was allegedly hiking in the vicinity with a duffle bag, a step stool, and the rifle when he approached a traffic stop on Palos Verdes Drive South around 5 p.m. on March 29.
When authorities arrived, they noted that the rifle was painted in green and purple, adorned with phrases like “HA HA HA HA” and the notorious line “Why so serious?” attributed to actor Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker.
Interestingly, the rifle’s tip was painted orange, which made it look more like a toy, according to officials.
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Lomita Station released a statement highlighting that not only was the rifle ready for use, but Steiner also admitted to firing one of the handguns into bushes nearby as a way to “vent his anger.”
Authorities reported that Steiner’s vest was capable of stopping bullets from rifles. In addition to the rifle, officers discovered two loaded handguns, a high-capacity magazine, and extra ammunition.
Officials emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that “an armed individual fires a weapon, walking through traffic and trails…in a populated area.” They praised bystanders for their quick actions in reporting the incident before anyone got hurt, reminding people to “If you see something, say something.”
Steiner now faces multiple felony firearm charges and was arrested on March 29. He was released on bond on April 1, according to jail records. A search through Arizona court records revealed only a speeding ticket from 2021, which required him to attend a defensive driving course.
Interestingly, he previously lived in Wisconsin, where a person sharing his name and date of birth was convicted of a misdemeanor DUI in 2008, as per public records. As of Wednesday morning, Steiner had not been available for further comment.
