Multi-front approach needed on gun violence

A recent article with statistics regarding gun violence highlights the need for a multi-front approach. Black kids shoot black kids probably related to gang affiliation. White kids shoot themselves to commit suicide.

A large number of mass shootings are young white men. Only a negligible number of shootings are done with legally obtained firearms. Millions of Americans are legal and peaceful owners of firearms of every variety.

No one law or restriction will solve the problem, so let's start with that fact.

Let's address the mental illness that causes young people to take their on life. Nihilism is rampant in the culture and needs to be addressed with a positive attitude and culture. That includes social media. Also any owner of a firearm whose gun is used should bare culpability

Illegal guns stashed in gang strongholds need to be confiscated and felonies perpetrated with a gun have to have mandatory penalties. And teen offenders must be prosecuted as adults. The gangs have exploited that loophole for too long.

The tools are there to dramatically reduce the carnage, but the will isn't

Bill Blaine

Glen Ellyn