The New Jersey chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroot networks, released the following statement in response to the shooting of Eunice Dwumfour, a 30-year-old member of the Sayreville Borough Council, who was shot and killed outside of her home Wednesday night. Early reports indicate that the attack was targeted, though any motive remains unclear.
“Our thoughts are with Councilwoman Dwumfour’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” said Michele Ruffin, a survivor and volunteer with the New Jersey chapter of Moms Demand Action whose husband, Donald Hughes, was shot and killed in their kitchen on April 6, 2012 in New Jersey. “Eunice was a dedicated public servant, committed to serving her constituents, and her life was tragically cut short by a senseless act of violence. This shooting is a tragic reminder that no one is immune from the devastating fallout of gun violence.”
In an average year, 439 people are killed by guns in New Jersey and another 874 are wounded. Gun violence costs New Jersey $5.3 billion each year, of which $168.9 million is paid by taxpayers. More information about gun violence in New Jersey is available here.