Editors Note – I can’t help but feel that people are targeting locations like the Capitol, not because of political beliefs, but of the ease of the target. These gun free “safe-zones” are being targeted by people who know that they can walk up and open fire on an unsuspecting and unarmed group of people.
Larry Russel Dawson walked all the way up to the metal detectors and once it went off he pulled his gun and opened fire. Luckily, no one was serious hurt and the Capitol Police did an amazing job protecting staff and tourists, but the fact remains that gun-free zones don’t save lives, they endanger them.
I hope I am wrong, but this is what I have observed and I can’t help but think that we will see a rise in these attacks. Just look at the number of mass shootings in Chicago or California compared to those in Texas or Arizona. There is even a historical precedent when you look at organized crime and armed robberies in these states. Criminals fear open carry.
Washington D.C. – Capitol Police confirmed that shots have been fired at a visitor center at the Capitol. Police have put the whole U.S. Capitol complex on lockdown.
UPDATE 1 – Capitol officials: 1 Capitol Police officer shot, not seriously injured and the shooter is in custody.
UPDATE 2 – The Capitol is no longer under lockdown. the shooter has been identified as Larry Russel Dawson and was shot and taken into custody. Due to the fast action of the Capitol Police no one was seriously injured, an officer and a female visitor were treated for minor injuries.
We will update this post as more information comes in.
