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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Chris Riotta

Gunman 'threatened Trump' after being caught speeding at 130mph to White House

A driver threatened Donald Trump after being caught speeding towards the White House with a firearm, bullets and gunpowder, police have said.

Eric Leonardo Charron of Kansas City, Missouri, appeared in court on Thursday charged with reckless driving and being a prohibited person in possession of a gun.

West Virginia state police said the 42-year-old was speeding at 130mph (209kph) on Interstate 68 when he was pulled over near Bruceton Mills on Wednesday.

An officer said in a criminal complaint that Mr Charron claimed to be running late to a dinner with the president and also wanted “to meet with the leader of the Army to return a phone.”

Police found a handgun, 300 rounds of ammunition and gunpowder after searching his car.

Asked why his vehicle's remote key would not open the boot, Mr Charron told police he had tampered with the fuses in an effort to "keep the CIA from listening to him through the radio."

Police said Mr Charron appeared confused and made concerning comments, including threats to kill Mr Trump and blow up the Pentagon, according to local TV network WCHS.

Sniffers dogs indicated the presence of explosives in his car, but none were found during the search.

Interstate 68 was closed for about four hours officers investigated. The FBI and the Secret Service were also notified.

Mr Charron admitted using methamphetamine recently and his pupils were dilated despite bright conditions outside, police said. 

He had driven through the night from his hometown but did not have any luggage, according to authorities.

The court ordered to be remanded in custody to await the next hearing on $10,000 (£7,670) cash bond, unless Mr Trump personally signs him out.

Associated Press contributed to this report

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