Monterey Park mass shooting is the latest example of increasing gun violence in America

We are living in a highly vigilant society that impacts feelings of safety, according to sociologist Stephanie Hartwell.

Stock photo of handguns.

The nation is once again reeling this morning as we learn about another mass shooting at a popular ballroom in California. On Saturday night in Monterey Park, a 72-year-old man shot and killed 10 people at a location that is popular with older Chinese Americans as they were celebrating the Chinese New Year.

While police continue investigating the event, this shooting highlights concerns about the increase of gun violence in America.

“It’s almost like being a combat veteran in a theater of combat.” — Stephanie Hartwell, Wayne State University


Listen: How gun violence affects communities.

 


Guest

Stephanie Hartwell is the dean of Wayne State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and a professor of sociology. She says gun violence on this scale has tremendous impact on the affected communities.

“It’s almost like being a combat veteran in a theater of combat, that you thought you were in a safe place,” says Hartwell. “You don’t trust your world anymore. The level of trauma is acute and immense.”

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