Gun Control & RKBA
In reply to the discussion: I have noticed something odd this weekend [View all]discntnt_irny_srcsm
(18,479 posts)...to the group.
You have a great point, that in the aftermath of such an incident any sane person would feel compelled to evaluate what's happened, to apply what's to be learned. I would sincerely hope that Law Enforcement, the ATF and any other agencies are reviewing everything connected with the crimes committed.
Just to be informative, background checks are not required for ammo purchases in most areas. (Some jurisdictions like DC have restrictions on the ownership of ammo for which you don't have a registered firearm.) The thinking here is that gun owners will buy ammo with great regularity. The ammo requires a gun to be fired and, since background checks are performed by FFLs when the guns are purchased, had a check been done, he'd have passed. Also, the quantities of ammo Holmes bought are not considered suspicious as bulk buys of 2,500 to 10,000 rounds often yield discounts. For that matter, most of these mental case shooters never manage to fire more than a hundred or sound rounds.
(IMHO) The best way for these incidents to be reduced or eliminated is to pay attention to family members and friends. See to it that they don't feel alone, isolated or paranoid. Maintain social contact at least weekly with anyone and everyone in your circle. As a last resort, speak to other associates/family and on confirming any suspicions of mental or emotional problems, have an intervention and/or get the authorities involved.
Hopefully with healthcare reform more options and support will become available to help more people.