Timeline by Shauna Golden
By Owen Kinglsey
The tragic shooting that took the lives of 59 people and injured more than 500 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sunday night has had a national impact. It has now become the worst mass shooting in this country’s history, and once again we begin the discussion on gun control with those voicing their opinions ranging from political figures to local owners and citizens.
Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy shared his reactions on Twitter on Tuesday with some next steps for the country.
These are weapons intentionally designed to kill as many people as efficiently as possible. Why is anyone shocked this keeps happening?
— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 2, 2017
To my colleagues: your cowardice to act cannot be whitewashed by thoughts and prayers.
None of this ends unless we do something to stop it.
— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 2, 2017
According to the Washington Post, President Trump seemed open to talking about gun laws in this country during a press briefing on Monday. However the White House has declined to begin those conversations at this time. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said, “There’s a time and place for a political debate, but now is the time to unite as a country..It would be premature for us to discuss policy when we don’t fully know all the facts, or what took place last night.”
Trump also tweeted Wednesday that he and the First Lady will be going to Las Vegas to pay his respects.
I will be landing in Las Vegas shortly to pay my respects with @FLOTUS Melania. Everyone remains in our thoughts and prayers.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 4, 2017
The weapons used by suspected Las Vegas shooter Stephen Paddock are believed to be legally owned semi-automatic rifles. However he used something referred to as a “bump stock” to allow it to shoot more rapidly, essentially turning it into an automatic rifle. Las Vegas police found 12 modified rifles like this. Senator Dianne Feinstein of California proposed a bill Wednesday to ban “bump stocks” from the public. If this bill passes, it will go into effect 180 days after it has been passed.
John DelNero, owner of Encore Guns and Accessories in Wallingford also gave his take on whether reformed gun laws would have an effect in decreasing mass shootings.
“Tighter gun laws will not make a difference. People will always find a way to kill if they choose. What are we going to outlaw next? Trucks and cars after the Charlottesville riot? Did Boston outlaw pressure cookers? I think stricter gun laws just won’t work to stop these things,” DelNero said.
The National Rifle Association surprisingly supports the new legislation proposed by Senator Dianne Feinstein and the Democrats in Congress. The organization that in the past has condemned attempts to restrict gun laws and regulations has agreed that “bump stocks” should be illegal for the public to purchase.