COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. –The Everytown Survivor Network and the Colorado chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America released the following statements in response to the shooting in Colorado Springs in which the shooter shot and killed three people.
While details are still developing, authorities have identified the victims as Andrew Myers, 35, Jennifer Vasquez, 42, and Christina Baccus-Gallela, 34. The full 911 tapes from the incident were released today.
STATEMENT FROM DAVE HOOVER, GUN VIOLENCE SURVIVOR AND LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER:
“My heart is with the Colorado Springs community today—and with the first responders and law enforcement who responded quickly to prevent further tragedy,” said Dave Hoover, Uncle of Aurora Shooting victim AJ Boik. “We are still learning about what happened in Colorado Springs this week and the 911 tapes have brought to light the confusing and dangerous issue of open carry. As a law enforcement officer and as someone who knows the pain of having someone close to them murdered with a firearm, it’s important to recognize that in Colorado, open carry is legal and another reminder of why our state’s background check requirement is an important part of keeping guns out of dangerous hands. We need to continue to discuss this important issue to prevent future tragedies.”
STATEMENT FROM ERIN DACOSTA, VOLUNTEER CHAPTER LEADER WITH THE COLORADO CHAPTER OF MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA:
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Colorado Springs community and the families of the victims,” said Erin DaCosta, volunteer chapter leader with the Colorado chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. “Details are still unfolding about what transpired in Colorado Springs and the recent release of the 911tapes does raise questions about how laws affect community safety. I am fed up with seeing headlines of tragedy after tragedy. As a member of the Colorado chapter of Moms Demand Action, I know we have made progress in curbing gun violence here in Colorado and that there is still more we can do to keep guns out of dangerous hands. We will continue to fight for the safety of our communities.”