Everytown’s New Analysis of Mass Shootings in America Reveals American Women and Children in The Crosshairs: 54 Percent Involved Domestic Violence, 25 Percent of Fatalities Were Children
WASHINGTON – Colin Goddard, a survivor from the 2007 mass shooting at Virginia Tech and member of the Everytown Survivor Network, Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America today released the following statements ahead of April 16, which will mark ten years since the mass shooting at Virginia Tech where 32 students and faculty were killed.
Earlier this week, Everytown for Gun Safety released an updated report analyzing mass shootings in the United States between 2009 and 2016 that shows a majority involve domestic or family violence, that American children are significantly affected and that shooters often exhibit warning signs. The full report is available here.
STATEMENT FROM COLIN GODDARD, A MEMBER OF THE EVERYTOWN SURVIVOR NETWORK WHO WAS SHOT AND INJURED IN THE MASS SHOOTING AT VIRGINIA TECH ON APRIL 16, 2007:
“The moment that gunshots rang out in Norris Hall, my eyes opened to the reality that students sitting in class – in the right place, at the right time – can become victims of gun violence in our country. This weekend, I’ll join with my family and other Virginia Tech families to remember those who were killed and reflect on our shared bond that we never asked for but will now always unite us. Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of how much the gun safety movement has grown, how millions of Americans have pushed back on the gun lobby’s dangerous vision and will continue to fight for the change that will help save lives.”
STATEMENT FROM JOHN FEINBLATT, PRESIDENT OF EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY:
“As we saw yet again this week, every time there is a school shooting, it destroys a kid’s and a community’s sense of security. In the face of unimaginable loss, Virginia Tech’s survivors and families continue to show amazing strength and courage. The Everytown family joins them in honoring the memories of their loved ones and friends, and in their commitment to end gun violence.”
STATEMENT FROM SHANNON WATTS, FOUNDER OF MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA, PART OF EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY:
“In the 10 years since the tragedy at Virginia Tech, more Americans have gotten off the sidelines to support gun safety. Unfortunately, Congress has not. More than 90 Americans are shot and killed every day and hundreds of others are injured. That’s why our grassroots movement is fighting tirelessly every day for a future free from gun violence. And we’re making progress in statehouses and boardrooms. In honor of the 32 lives taken at Virginia Tech – and for all Americans killed and injured by senseless gun violence – we will keep fighting for stronger gun laws.”