Another Armed Lunatic Takes Another Innocent Life, Puts The Public At Risk

Jun 11, 2009

Washington, DC - Paul Helmke, President of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, issued the following statement on the new information about the apparent shooter at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum:

“Back in April, a disturbed Pittsburgh man killed three police officers because he thought President Obama was going to take his guns.  Yesterday, a bigot took the life of a museum security guard because he thought the Government was coming to take his weapons.  We can only wish that their guns had been taken away.

“I have to believe most Americans think that a man who spent time in prison for trying to assault the Federal Reserve Building and spread as much hate as this man did, who left a note saying ‘Jews captured America’s money’ and ‘Jews… are America’s enemies’ should indeed have had his guns taken away.  Maybe then Stephen T. Johns’ wife wouldn’t be a widow, and his son wouldn’t be without a father.

“This man was a walking poster child for why we must make it harder for dangerous people to have guns. President Obama and Congress need to take action about radical extremist hate crimes and gun violence, instead of avoiding the subject.”

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As the nation's largest, non-partisan, grassroots organization leading the fight to prevent gun violence, the Brady Campaign, with its dedicated network of Million Mom March Chapters, works to enact and enforce sensible gun laws, regulations and public policies. The Brady Campaign is devoted to creating an America free from gun violence, where all Americans are safe at home, at school, at work, and in our communities.

For continuing insight and comment on the gun issue, read Paul Helmke's blog at www.bradycampaign.org/blog/. Visit the Brady Campaign website at www.bradycampaign.org.