by Sebastian Arritola
When contemplating Texas, one could bring to mind nationalism and patriotism unparalleled by any other state. Look to recent legislation: with varying exceptions, almost any individual may wield a firearm within the state. Some may perceive that as self-preservation gone astray; others may feel compromised when out and about. After all, you wouldn’t be likely to be the victim of a sporadic shooting spree in Texas of all places—or is that no longer a valid excuse?
There have been instances in which shootings resembling those of school shootings have transpired in the past. On March 27, 2023, Audrey Hale wreaked havoc at The Covenant School, leaving six casualties, three of whom were students. Regardless of the reason, firearms may pose a threat to anyone’s livelihood.
Such an event ended up occurring last weekend on May 6, 2023, as in Allen, Texas, a man by the name of Mauricio Garcia shot—and killed—eight individuals, some even as young as three years old. He enlisted in the military in 2008, and law enforcement claim his doings were politically motivated. Moreover, they identified a tattoo that could potentially link him to a gang; what that gang is, if any at all, has yet to be disclosed. Victims differ in ethnicity, and their respective losses were covered by outlets from their countries of origin. He was neutralized by local officers who were able to respond with ample time, and, as previously stated, his motives have yet to be entirely affirmed.
This event brings the Second Amendment and firearms debate back into the public discourse. Time will tell if any changes will be made.
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