Jimmy was aware of Ruiz's concerns; he had just come into power and was now under pressure from the upper ranks to resolve the situation quickly. Clearly, this so-called upper level included more than just high-ranking government officials, possibly even the mayor and council members.
Jimmy was in a bind, much like before. Although there are two individuals now, the evidence is inconclusive and they need to wait for verification from the forensic department and the lab.
Jimmy's guess was correct. The gun recovered from the amusement park shooting scene, after ballistic comparison, did not match the gun from the first park shooting incident, meaning the park shooting case couldn't be closed yet and they still needed to find the second shooter from that case.
The identity of the second person involved in the amusement park shooting was also confirmed: Joseph Carter, a former Ranger who retired two years ago and, like Daniel, was receiving psychological treatment arranged by the VA. However, Joseph was worse off; his family died in a severe accident while he was serving, and he's not married. Although it's not known if he has a girlfriend, his current state is quite solitary.
Many of these former U.S. soldiers who served abroad experience various psychological issues upon returning and retiring, so the VA generally has records on them. Some who face financial or family issues are selected for free psychological treatment, which can be good material when writing articles later. Of course, not all can be free, at best they might negotiate discounts with partner organizations.
The discovery of these two individuals didn't add up; two retired soldiers, both with psychological issues, how did they come together to initiate such large-scale gun violence similar to a terrorist attack?
Jimmy: "Mark, you go look into Daniel and Joseph's psychologists. Also, check with the VA to verify what their relationship is, who introduced them, where they might have met... Essentially, we need to figure out if this group has an instigator pushing them to carry out these random shootings."
Mark nodded, Jimmy: "Julia, you don't have any investigations at the moment either, join him."
Jimmy handed the car keys to Mark again, and as they headed out, it was clear Mark would be the driver.
Jimmy was having them conduct the investigation to hopefully let them become independent quickly. One was a technical personnel, the other a soldier, neither had much case-handling experience. This type of investigation work was perfect for them to gain experience, and it would be even better if they could expand their thinking when they got leads and continue investigating based on them.
Handling case leads proactively was something Jimmy often did in the past; if these two had such ideas too, Jimmy certainly wouldn't mind. If they could manage things independently, it would make Jimmy's role as team leader easier.
Nearing the end of the workday, Mark and Julia hadn't returned yet. Jimmy made a call to check on the situation, and there weren't any obvious leads yet; they were still investigating. It was evident their initiative had been truly activated.
Jimmy checked the time, went home to change clothes after work, and then drove to Nia's house. Nia had called Jimmy earlier to let him know her grandfather would also be there, needing some company.
With frequent visits, Jimmy now completely considered this place home, without any nervousness. Accompanying the old man for a chat, during dinner Kevin asked Jimmy to make some time recently. With the end of the year approaching, there would be many activities, and he would inform Jimmy ahead if needed, so they could attend together.
Of course, Jimmy agreed, as Kevin clearly felt no distance from him anymore. Attending events might not always yield gains, but no one knows if such encounters might happen in the future.
Additionally, Jimmy's enrollment for further studies had progressed, but not as originally thought. His previous investigation was inaccurate; he intended to study law, but a master's in law required a master's in legal studies first. His current degree couldn't take him further; pursuing a master's in legal studies would require completing a bachelor's and master's, taking 3-4 years.
Kevin suggested psychology as an easier alternative, as a master's in psychology was relatively more achievable than in law.
Kevin had already inquired about this for Jimmy, so that would be the plan. Jimmy nodded in agreement, and the subsequent procedures began.
After dinner, they casually discussed the wedding plans. The wedding was set for May, with the time and place confirmed. They would need to prepare well in the upcoming months.
Seeing that the family matters were almost settled, Kevin invited Jimmy to the study, as his interest was still on the shooting investigation, a topic clearly unsuitable for discussing outside.
Jimmy: "The shooting investigation is halfway done. We've already taken down one suspect from the park shooting, and the rifle's ballistic match has been confirmed. But there's still another shooter we're looking for."
Kevin: "Is there evidence proving a second shooter at the scene? Can't the case be closed soon?"
Jimmy: "Close the case quickly? Why?"
Kevin: "The pressure from the city government is immense right now. The timeframe between the two mass shootings is too short, and everyone is hoping we can quickly provide a conclusion."
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