Former army psychologist responsible for 2009 Texas shooting spree at a military location begins trial

The trial of U.S.-born Muslim and former psychologist in the U.S. army, Major Nidal M. Hasan, began today for the deadliest shooting on a U.S. military location in history. Hasan refers to himself as a Mujahedeen, or Muslim holy warrior.

On November 15, 2009, Hasan opened fire at Fort Hood’s Soldier Readiness Processing Center in central Texas, killing 13 and wounding 32. According to Washington Post, Hasan fired at least 100 rounds while yelling ‘Allahu akbar!’, or ‘God is Great.’

At the time of the attack, the center was filled with soldiers preparing to be deployed to Afghanistan, Hasan being one of them.

The trial was set to begin over 18 months ago, but was delayed by various issues. Hasan, now 42, fought to be able to represent himself in court, and openly admits to being responsible for the shooting.

"The evidence will clearly show that I am the shooter," Hasan said, ABC reports. "We Mujahedeen are imperfect soldiers trying to form a perfect religion. I apologize for any mistakes I made in this endeavor."
Hasan was not allowed the opportunity to plead guilty in court. In order to be convicted, the 13 officers on the panel must decide that he is guilty. Although the death sentence is rare in the military justice system, Hasan will face the death penalty if found guilty.
Army civilian police shot Hasan during the attack to stop him, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Officials say the trial could last for months.

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