The Virginia 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 the shooting of Dominic “Nick” J. Winum, a 48-year-old police officer, who was shot in Stanley last night during a traffic stop. According to police reports, Winum was shot and killed before he got out of his patrol vehicle during the stop. The shooter left the scene and was later shot and killed by officers.
“I know what it means to have a loved one taken by gun violence,” said David Manning, a gun violence survivor and volunteer with the Virginia chapter of Moms Demand Action. “My heart is with the family and loved ones of Officer Winum. They are devastatingly joining a club that no one wants to be a part of but encompasses so many in our country. Right now, 58% of American adults or someone they care for have experienced gun violence. That’s unacceptable and the reason we are committed to fighting for gun safety and an end to this public health crisis.”
Every year, over 1,000 people die by guns and over 2,000 more are wounded in Virginia, and gun violence costs the state $7.1 billion each year, of which $292.5 million is paid by taxpayers. Statistics about gun violence in Virginia are available here, and information on how Virgnia’s gun laws compare to other states’ overall is available here.
If you have questions, or to request an interview with a volunteer from Virginia Moms Demand Action and/or Students Demand Action, please don’t hesitate to reach out.