Warning Signs Not Fully Addressed Resulted in Tragedy in Georgia
‘This Was Preventable.’ Grossly Inadequate Gun Safety Laws and Warning Signs Not Fully Addressed Resulted in Tragedy in Georgia.
“While information is still coming in, it seems very clear that yesterday’s horrific school shooting in Winder, Georgia was preventable. The 14-year-old alleged school shooter had the kind of history we see so often among those who commit mass shootings. News reports suggest he grew up in an unstable home in which there was abuse. He was reportedly bullied at school. Family members say he wasn’t able to get the mental health care he needed. Yet, still, he was able to have ready access to an assault-style weapon.
So as we grieve the devastating losses in Winder and rush support to the survivors and the community, let’s also remind ourselves that solutions lie in banning assault weapons; funding interventions to prevent family violence; and doing much more to help those who’ve been traumatized by abuse heal.
We are reminded, almost daily, that violence that starts in the home doesn’t stay in the home. Research shows that two-thirds of mass shootings are domestic violence incidents or are perpetrated by shooters with a history of domestic violence. The only way to stop these heartbreaking shootings is to intensify our work to stop family violence and get lethal weapons like assault rifles out of our communities. We need much stronger gun laws to stop this madness and help make our schools and communities safe.”
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ABOUT FUTURES WITHOUT VIOLENCE:
For more than 35 years, FUTURES has been providing groundbreaking programs, policies and campaigns that empower individuals and organizations working to end violence against women and children around the world. Striving to reach new audiences and transform social norms, FUTURES trains professionals such as doctors, nurses, judges and athletic coaches on improving responses to violence and abuse. FUTURES also works with advocates, policymakers and others to build sustainable community leadership and educate people everywhere about the importance of respect and healthy relationships. More information is available at www.futureswithoutviolence.org.
