Federal authorities said Friday they’re now investigating the San Bernardino, California shooting that left 14 dead as an act of terrorism.
“We are now investigating these horrific acts as an act of terrorism,” David Bowdich, the FBI assistant director in charge of the Los Angeles office, said.
Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeem Malik attempted to erase their digital footprint before the massacre, and crushed their cell phones before dumping them in the trash, Bowdich said.
Farook and Malik also made “telephonic connection” with “other subjects in our investigation,” he said, but could not elaborate on whether they were in contact with individuals overseas.
He also confirmed neither suspect was under active surveillance by authorities before the attack.
Regarding opening the couple’s Redlands, California apartment to the press – during which MSNBC broadcast live footage of photos of children and a driver’s license – Bowdich said the property is no longer a crime scene, and was turned over to the owners last night.
San Bernardino Police Chief Jarrod Burguan also said there is no active threat to the community after reports that a person was seen photographing a local movie theater and a “Middle Eastern” man questioned a security guard about movies at the same venue.
This post has been updated.
