The Missouri chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, released the following statement in response to reports that multiple people were wounded and two people, including a teenager, were killed in a shooting at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in St. Louis earlier this morning. Details are still developing.
“This tragedy should not have happened – our hearts are with all of those who were impacted by today’s shooting at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School,” said Niadu Allen, a volunteer with the Missouri chapter of Moms Demand Action and Everytown Survivor Fellow. “Our kids should not have to grow up in a world where gunfire can ring out anywhere, at any time. Our leaders must step up and do more to prevent gun violence and keep our communities safe.”
In an average year, 1,288 people die and 2,312 people are wounded by guns in Missouri. Missouri has the 5th-highest rate of gun deaths in the U.S., and the rate of gun deaths has increased 70% from 2011 to 2020, compared to a 33% increase nationwide. Firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens in Missouri. Learn more about gun violence in Missouri here.
