Community Justice Responds to Sunday’s Mass Shooting in Baltimore

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 20, 2024

Baltimore, MD – Following a mass shooting on Sunday night, where one person was killed and seven others injured, Community Justice Executive Director José Alfaro released the following statement:

We are once again forced to mourn the senseless violence that continues to plague our communities. We stand in solidarity with the victims and their families, who now face an unimaginable loss and trauma that will linger for years to come.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, in his response to this tragedy, highlighted a harsh truth that we cannot ignore: “These tragic acts of violence — which are still too common in our city — are only possible because of the continued ease of access to guns on our streets.”

The stark reality is that Baltimore, like many other cities across the nation, is grappling with an epidemic of gun violence that is fueled by the unchecked proliferation of firearms. Data from the Baltimore Police Department shows that this year alone, there have been over 200 shootings in the city, resulting in a devastating toll on families and communities.

Community Justice remains steadfast in its commitment to ending gun violence in our communities. We call on local, state, and federal leaders to take immediate and decisive action to address the root causes of this crisis. This includes enacting stronger gun safety laws, using a public health approach to stop the spread of violence, investing in community-led solutions, and ensuring that resources are available to support the healing and recovery of those affected by violence.

Our hearts are with the families of those who were killed and injured in this senseless tragedy. As we grieve, we are more determined than ever to fight for a future where all communities can live free from the fear of gun violence.

###