It's only been a few days since a gunman in Las Vegas killed 59 people attending the Route 91 Harvest country music festival, and injured more than 500. Many of us, all across America, are asking why and how such a tragedy could happen.
We asked members of the KPBS Public Insight Network how the mass shooting is affecting them personally.
Here are some of their responses, edited for readability:
Kristen Koeblin, San Diego: "I was in an active shooter training the same time that the San Bernardino shooting happened. I found out when I got back to the office. Since then, I've made sure I know where my exits are anywhere that I go, and if I can't exit safely, I know where to hide."
Emily Fleet, Normal Heights: A friend of mine witnessed a school shooting, it was horrific. Another friend of mine from high school lost a friend in Vegas this weekend. With the prevalence of mass shootings, it seems by now EVERY ONE in the USA would have either witnessed one firsthand or been affected by at least a degree of separation. Why is this still happening in the 'greatest' country in the world?"
Chris McCoy, El Cajon: "I’m very sad to learn of the tragic loss of life. Unfortunately, some on the left will, or already have, use this as an opportunity to try and push their political ideology."
James McCann, Chula Vista: "I no longer feel like I live (in a) free society. I am a gun owner who is ashamed of our country's unwillingness to protect its citizens from gun violence. Our country currently lacks the leadership and character to do what has been needed for a very long time. The influence of the NRA and the rest of the gun lobby has contributed to the deaths in the tens of thousands of US citizens of all ages, yet no one is held accountable."
Anne Wayman, National City: "Let's fire all the congress people who accept money from the NRA. As I understand it, originally the NRA was for responsible gun ownership. I don't know what they really stand for now, but they're big trouble for the rest of us."
Become a KPBS source.
