The assassination attempt of Mason "Scorpio" Smith transpired during one of his rallies on October 10, as he campaigned in Pacifico to secure the state of South Bloxifornia for the upcoming 2024 Election. The assailant, 29-year-old Austin Owen, identified as a communist rebel aligned with Coeptus II and opposed to Mason Smith, fired an AR-47, discharging three rounds at Smith. Two of the bullets struck Mason; one penetrated his right earlobe, while the other impacted his cheek on the same side. The third bullet missed its intended target and tragically struck an audience member, Richard Newburgh, directly in the chest, resulting in his immediate death, while Mason Smith managed to survive the attack.
Authorities and investigators uncovered substantial evidence linking Austin Owen to the Arbington Shootings that transpired the previous day. The police ultimately intervened to halt the gunfire, resulting in the arrest of several assailants. Owen harbored resentment towards the imprisonment of his associates who instigated the Arbington incident. Additionally, he was frustrated by Scorpio's dominance in North Bloxifornia and the impending victory in South Bloxifornia, coupled with Coeptus's reluctance to consider military action. On October 10, Owen identified a chance to address his grievances. Mason Smith was scheduled to hold a significant rally at Pacifico, South Bloxifornia. On that day, Owen infiltrated the Prestige Hotel, restraining several employees and guests. He brandished his AR-47 to intimidate witnesses. Ascending to the hotel's rooftop, he positioned himself, awaiting the opportune moment. At 3:43 PM TST, Austin Owen fired three shots, with two hitting Smith and the final one striking Newburgh. Secret Service agents and security personnel apprehended him on the roof, firing two shots that struck his arm holding the weapon.
One of the pictures taken from Mason Smith's rally when he was shot.
The Secret Service, along with others, believed him to be deceased. In reality, he had merely lost consciousness due to fear. SWAT apprehended him and transported him to North Bloxifornia State Prison. The following day, he faced judgment from Marvin L. Waterlo, resulting in a sentence of life imprisonment plus an additional 1,260 years and a fine of ⏣25,000,000 ($30,000). On October 14, a raid on the State Prison was conducted by Coeptus II and his military forces, which led to the complete annexation of North Bloxifornia. On the same day, Austin Owen was assassinated, and the Battle of Bloxifornia was subsequently declared between Robloxia and the Coffee-Stained Republic.