Matthew Wilson
An ex-MLB draft pick is in serious trouble. He’s been accused of allegedly breaking into the Washington state Capitol. While there, he allegedly set fire to several flags, including Old Glory. He also allegedly destroyed several busts as well.
Videos by Rare
What Happened: 29-year-old Gunnar Schubert is a former Miami Marlins draft pick. According to Fox 13 Seattle, he broke into the Washington state Capitol building with two hammers. Reportedly, the former athlete was suffering from a mental health crisis.
Allegedly, the ex-MLB draft pick drove onto the flowerbed outside the Capitol building. Breaking into the building, he allegedly began smashing several busts and setting fire to objects in the building. This included several flags such as Old Glory and the original carpet for the State Reception Room.
Officials Speak Out: Several Washington officials spoke out on the incident.
- “On Sunday evening, after 10 p.m., an individual broke a window and entered the State Capitol Building. He proceeded in a fairly short period of time to damage several items in the building,” Lt. Gov. Denny Heck said.
- He also added, “Over the last several years, there has been a significant escalation in both violence-tinged political rhetoric and actual violence. We can continue to adapt security measures, and we will, designed to prevent and deter such incidents. The fact remains, however, that we must all do our part in turning down the temperature. Violent rhetoric, property destruction, and violence against individuals are a cancer on our democratic society.
- “Last night, an intruder broke into the Legislative Building and damaged several facilities and historical artifacts,” Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson wrote on X. “There was significant damage in our State Reception Room, which is a particularly important space.”
- “We have the most beautiful Capitol in the country. I am grateful for the quick work of our Department of Enterprise Services and the Washington State Patrol to bring this individual safely into custody,” Ferguson added.
State Capitol Break-In
Drafted by the Marlins in the 28th round of the 2018 MLB draft, Schubert played just two seasons of minor league baseball. Sadly, he has a history of mental health issues. Authorities believe this may have played a role in the alleged vandalism.
Authorities arrested him and charged him with first-degree burglary, first-degree arson, and first-degree malicious mischief.
