The Maryland chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, released the following statement in response to reports of a shooting at a manufacturing facility in Smithsburg, Maryland. According to reports, three people were shot and killed and a police officer was wounded. Police are investigating, and details are still developing.
“Our hearts are with the victims of this horrific shooting and their loved ones,” said Melissa Ladd, a volunteer leader with the Maryland chapter of Moms Demand Action. “Gun violence has long reached a fever pitch across our country, and the consequences it continues to reap on our state are unacceptable. We have made meaningful progress in addressing this crisis in Maryland, but there is still more to be done. As we await details, we will continue to fight for an end to senseless gun violence.”
In an average year in Maryland, 743 people die by guns and 1,747 people are wounded. Gun violence costs Maryland $5.7 billion each year, of which $375.8 million is paid by taxpayers. More information on gun violence in Maryland is available here.
