Reston, Virginia – Hyung Joon Choi, a 31-year-old resident of Reston, was tragically shot and killed in a targeted attack at a Gold’s Gym in Reston on Tuesday afternoon. The Fairfax County Police Department identified Choi as the victim after responding to reports of a shooting at the gym located on Sunrise Valley Drive around 1 p.m.
According to police reports, Choi was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. Despite being rushed to the hospital in critical condition, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Steve Taehee Ha, was apprehended later that evening. Ha allegedly approached Choi while he was working out, and the incident is believed to be a targeted attack. Ha has been charged with second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He appeared in court for his arraignment on Wednesday morning.
Gold’s Gym has expressed its shock and sorrow over the incident. CEO Matt Clifford issued a statement acknowledging the swift response of law enforcement and extended condolences to Choi’s family. Both Choi and Ha were members of the gym and had adhered to the gym’s security protocols by scanning their membership cards upon entry.
The shooting has left the gym community in shock, with many members struggling to process the tragic event that has deeply affected the local community.