Virginia Beach tragedy takes US mass shootings to 150 in 151 days
A gunman opened fire inside a government building in Virginia (Picture: Reuters) The United States ..
The United States has had 150 mass shootings in just the 151 days of 2019 so-far.
The shocking statistic comes just as 13 people lost their lives in a shooting a Virginia Beach.
Four others were wounded in the attack, after a gunman opened fire inside a building at the Virginia Beach Municipal Centre shortly after 4pm on May 31.
The shooter, believed to be an employee of the public utilities department, was killed by police at the scene.
Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who leads gun violence prevention organisation Giffords, said the groups hearts and our sorrow were with victims families.
She said: Were only 151 days into 2019 and there have already been 150 mass shootings. This reality is horrifying. Its heartbreaking.
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The fact that our nations leaders continue to fail to protect us should fuel outrage in every American.
The stories of survivors from Virginia Beach touch on a familiar refrain: The peace of the workday shattered by the sound of gunfire.
Coworkers huddled on the floor trying to stay quiet as the shooting gets closer. The disbelief that its finally happening to them. Our hearts and our sorrow are in Virginia tonight.
Ms Giffords was a victim of the 2011 Tuscan shooting, after a man opened fire on a constituent meeting being held in Arizona on January 8.