The suspect, Robert Card, is still at large. The shooting unfolded in two locations: a bowling alley where a children’s league was taking place and a local bar, officials said.
In the wake of the deadliest mass shooting in the U.S. this year, claiming 18 lives in Lewiston, Maine, Harvard’s David Hemenway, an esteemed professor of health policy and director of the Harvard Injury Control Research Center, has raised his voice against the ongoing crisis of gun violence in America. Speaking to The Gazette, Hemenway underscored the critical need for a resolute political response to address this enduring issue. While acknowledging that quick solutions may be elusive, he stressed the significance of supporting political candidates who champion measures such as universal background checks, a move widely endorsed by the American populace. He also called for backing advocacy groups dedicated to promoting rational gun policies.
Hemenway emphasized the statistical reality that owning a gun for self-protection can often lead to more harm than good, as it elevates the risks of accidents, theft, suicides, and domestic violence. The interview highlighted the urgency of conducting further research, particularly in areas such as open carry and the concerning phenomenon of “ghost guns,” in order to inform well-considered gun regulations. While acknowledging immediate challenges, Hemenway retained optimism that, with increased research and the right policy frameworks, the United States can effectively address its pervasive gun violence problem. Drawing parallels with the historical context of cigarettes, he anticipates a shift in public perception driven by comprehensive research, ultimately leading to more effective policies.
Furthermore, the Cal State San Bernardino community extended its heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the victims and their families in the aftermath of the Maine mass shooting. The university administration’s message, recognizing the shared sorrow with communities that have endured similar tragedies, called for unified action to ensure that Americans can lead their lives without the haunting specter of random gun violence. While acknowledging the ongoing situation, the message fervently prayed for a peaceful resolution and urged collaborative endeavors to tackle the broader issue of gun violence in the United States.
In the aftermath of this harrowing incident, the urgency of conversations around gun violence and the imperative for concerted efforts to combat it have gained increasing prominence across the nation.
