The man suspected of attacking Paul Pelosi, the husband of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, carried zip ties with him when he broke into the couple’s San Francisco home early Friday, several media outlets reported.
CNN and The Associated Press, citing sources who requested anonymity, said that David DePape, 42, was carrying a bag containing multiple zip ties when he entered the Pelosi home shortly after 2:32 a.m. PDT.
San Francisco police Chief William “Bill” Scott said during a news conference on Friday that DePape will face charges including attempted homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse and burglary.
Police said DePape confronted Paul Pelosi, 82, inside the residence and asked, “Where is Nancy?”
San Francisco Police Department officers were conducting a well-being check at the house when they encountered the suspect and Paul Pelosi.
According to authorities, DePape entered the home through a back door, CNN reported. The two men struggled over a hammer before officers responding to a 911 call said they saw DePape strike Paul Pelosi at least once, the AP reported.
During his 911 call, Paul Pelosi said he kept his phone line open and spoke to the dispatcher in code that still made it clear that he needed help, CNN reported.
[ Nancy Pelosi releases statement day after husband’s attack ]
According to San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, DePape is expected to be charged with multiple felonies on Monday and arraigned Tuesday, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
“DePape will be held accountable for his heinous crimes,” Jenkins tweeted.
Nancy Pelosi was in Washington, D.C., when her husband was attacked, but has since returned to California, The Hill reported.
On Saturday, Nancy Pelosi released a statement, saying that she and her family members were “heartbroken and traumatized” by the attack.
[ Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul Pelosi, attacked with hammer in home break-in ]
“We are grateful for the quick response of law enforcement and emergency services and for the life-saving medical care he is receiving,” the speaker said. “Please know that the outpouring of prayers and warm wishes from so many in the Congress is a comfort to our family and is helping Paul make progress with his recovery. His condition continues to improve.”
The speaker’s spokesperson, Drew Hammill, released a statement Friday afternoon stating that Paul Pelosi had successful surgery.
“Paul Pelosi was attacked at home by an assailant who acted with force, and threatened his life while demanding to see the Speaker,” Hammill said. “Mr. Pelosi was admitted to Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital where he underwent successful surgery to repair a skull fracture and serious injuries to his right arm and hands. His doctors expect a full recovery.”