Deadly Shooting in Yakima leaves Three Fatalities, Washington Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action Respond

Washington Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots network, released the following statement after three people were shot and killed in Yakima. According to reporting, the suspect, identified as a resident, entered a local convenience store, and shot and killed two people. The suspect then went across the store and fatally shot another individual inside their vehicle. This shooting comes on the heels of an already deadly week nationwide. Since Sunday, the country has already seen shootings with multiple fatalities in California, Louisiana, and Iowa, underscoring the need for further action to protect families throughout the country from gun violence.

“Another senseless act of gun violence again breaks our hearts,” said Rebecca Elbaum, a volunteer with the Washington chapter of Moms Demand Action. “It’s inconceivable that we cannot go to a convenience store without risking our lives. We shouldn’t have to mourn our loved ones like this; we will continue working with our lawmakers to hold all those accountable for their role in our gun violence crisis.”

This past week, the Washington Senate’s Law and Justice Committee advanced SB 5078, which seeks to ensure accountability for the firearm industry. The measure, currently in the Rules Committee, will ensure that firearms manufacturers and sellers face liability if they fail to establish, implement and enforce reasonable controls in the manufacture, sale, distribution, and marketing of firearms. Its passing would enable gun violence survivors to bring lawsuits against firearm manufacturers and dealers whose irresponsible conduct is fueling the gun violence crisis. In addition, this upcoming Friday, the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee will consider HB 1143, which would require firearm purchasers to obtain a permit and undergo training before being able to buy a gun – a critical step in preventing future gun violence instances.

In Washington, the rate of gun suicide increased 11 percent and gun homicide increased 87 percent from 2011 to 2020, compared to a 12 percent increase and 70 percent increase nationwide, respectively. The rate of gun deaths has increased 24 percent from 2011 to 2020 in Washington state, compared to a 33 percent increase nationwide. Additional information on gun violence in Washington state is available here.

If you are interested in speaking with a Washington Moms Demand Action or Students Demand Action volunteer, please reach out to [email protected].