Live Free USA Calls for Urgent Action After Apalachee High School Tragedy

We mourn the loss of students Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo and teachers Christina Irimie and Richard Aspinwall who were killed at Apalachee High School, where a 14-year-old opened fire in yet another heartbreaking act of violence. This tragedy has upended the lives of countless individuals, leaving families, friends, and the entire community grappling with unimaginable grief.?

As we process this devastating loss, we are reminded of the urgent need to address the systemic issues that allow such violence to persist, and to take decisive action to prevent future tragedies related to gun violence.

"No child should ever experience this kind of trauma at school or anywhere in their community," shares Executive Director Pastor Mike McBride. "Whether it's violence in our schools or in our streets, we must address the root causes and intervene before another life is lost."

Gun violence is now the leading cause of death among children in the U.S., with over 4,300 children and teens killed each year (CDC). In communities across the country, credible messengers and violence interrupters are working to prevent tragedies like this through community-led efforts. Yet, without adequate resources and investment, we will continue to see families and communities shattered by violence.

And that’s why we’re calling for an increased investment in community violence intervention (CVI) programs and a stronger commitment to trauma-informed approaches.

Key Data:

• 100,000 people are shot annually in the U.S.
• 19,000 children and teens are either killed or injured due to gun violence each year.1
• Firearms are the leading cause of death for children under 18.2

Take Action:?

Join us in advocating for community violence intervention (CVI) in cities throughout the country to end gun violence in our schools and neighborhoods.

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Sources:

1. Gun Violence Archive

2. CDC