Hostage Drama Unfolds at Discovery HQ

SILVER SPRING: A gunman who took three hostages at Discovery Communications’ headquarters yesterday afternoon was shot dead by police after a four-hour standoff.

The suspect, identified as James J. Lee, took three hostages, who all escaped unhurt after the ordeal. Lee allegedly took issue with Discovery’s environmental programming, saying it was doing little to protect the planet. He also reportedly believed that signature shows such as Kate Plus 8 promoted population growth. Lee apparently has history with Discovery—he led a protest there in early 2008 and was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Commenting on the events that unfolded yesterday, David Leavy, executive VP of global communications and corporate affairs, stated, "In coordination with Montgomery County, Md., Police, an evacuation procedure was executed for all persons in the building. The evacuation procedures were handled with professionalism and with safety as Discovery’s primary concern. Discovery thanks the Montgomery County Police and Fire & Rescue and other state and federal safety personnel whose quick thinking and fast action ensured the safety of the employees and children in the building as well as the Silver Spring, Md., community. The events of today showed the strong heart of the Discovery family."