U.S. authorities are considering moving the trial of Jared Lee Loughner, the alleged gunman in last week's multiple shooting in Tucson, Arizona, to San Diego, California, The Washington Post reported Sunday, quoting federal law enforcement sources.
Loughner, 22, was accused of killing six people and wounding 14 others including Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords at a gathering outside a grocery store in Tucson, Arizona on Jan. 8.
Loughner could receive up to life in prison if convicted of shooting Giffords, and up to 20 years if convicted in the shooting of two other congressional aides.
Loughner also is expected to face a series of charges in state courts.
The new chief judge, Roslyn O. Silver, will make the final decision about any venue change. But a law enforcement official said: "It's going to happen. It's just a matter of time," according to the report.
San Diego is expected to get the case, as it is one of the closest judicial districts to Arizona, federal officials said. Larry A. Burns, who is based in the city, was appointed last week to hear the case as Arizona judges recused themselves.
The motive for the killing remains unknown. Loughner has not been cooperating with investigators, citing his rights, authorities said.