The Herndon man charged in Wednesday's shooting at the conservative Family Research Council appeared in D.C. federal court for the first time Thursday afternoon, where a judge ordered him to undergo a mental evaluation.
Floyd Lee Corkins II is charged with transporting a firearm and ammunition across state lines, a federal charge, and assault with intent to kill while armed, a D.C. charge.
Federal authorities say he entered the Family Research Council building Wednesday morning, told security guard Leo Johnson that he didn't agree with the Council's policies -- which include opposition to gay marriage -- and opened fire with a 9mm semiautomatic handgun, according to court documents. Johnson was hit in the arm but managed to tackle the gunman to the ground, according to authorities.
In court Thursday, Corkins wore a white HAZMAT-esque suit and sported a black eye. He spoke only to tell the judge that he had just $300 in his checking account and couldn't afford an attorney.
Magistrate Judge Alan Kay ruled that Corkins should be held without bail for the time being and set a preliminary hearing date for Aug. 24. Kay granted federal prosecutors' request that Corkins undergo a mental evaluation.
According to court documents, investigators recovered two loaded magazines for the pistol on the scene and another 50 rounds of ammunition from Corkins' backpack, as well as 15 Chik-fil-A sandwiches. Chik-fil-A's CEO recently made headlines for his public opposition to same-sex marriage.
According to the affidavit, Corkins' parents -- whom he lives with -- told FBI agents that their son has "strong opinions with respect to those he believes do not treat homosexuals in a fair manner."