The resident said he had drinks with Li on different occasions, adding that the gunman was sociable and even had two Chinese girlfriends.
He said Li appeared to be troubled with his immigration status, but he did not elaborate.
Hanatour operators feared the incident will make a bad impression about Saipan among potential tourists in South Korea.
They said the incident may permanently damage the island’s image if authorities fail to ensure the safety of visitors.
Li shot at least eight Korean tourists in Marpi after killing four local residents near the Kannat Tabla shooting range.
There were no fatalities among the Koreans but one of them was in critical condition.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial said the shooting rampage was an unfortunate and isolated incident.
“My hearts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the victims [during Friday’s] shooting and most especially to those that were fatally wounded. The commonwealth has never experienced a tragic situation like this and we are saddened by the appalling action of a single individual that has caused so much harm to our peaceful island community,” the governor said in a statement.
Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos assured the community and tourists that “the commonwealth is still a good place to visit.”
Fitial’s opponent in today’s gubernatorial runoff election, Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider, separately issued a statement, expressing his sympathies to the victims.
“The entire commonwealth family suffered a deep loss with the tragic shootings on our island. [Running mate] Arnold [Palacios] and I join the people throughout our islands and our welcomed visitors as we hold those affected in our thoughts and prayers. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the families and friends of the victims in this dreadful event. And we express our gratitude to the law enforcement officers and medical staff who responded so valiantly to deal with the situation,” they said.
