Something I feel I should write about, and it's very hard to put down on paper, is the recent mass shooting that happened in Las Vegas. It is known as "the deadliest shooting in modern US history" according to CNN. On Sunday night, October 1, 2017, tourists and concert goers all around came to watch James Aldean perform country music at the Route 91 Harvest Festival. At 10:08 pm, what sounded like fireworks turned out to be an assault rifle raining down bullets from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Innocent people were targeted, and as a result, roughly 59 were killed. 22,000 people attended the concert. A couple from Santa Barbara who were there are among the 527 who were injured. They are being hospitalized and expected to recover.
Hearing the news is heartbreaking, I can't imagine what it must have been like to witness this firsthand. It was like "shooting fish in a barrel." The shooting took place toward the exits. No one could get out. Loved ones, family members, a navy veteran, countless others, have been pronounced deceased by this act of madness. All I want are answers. Why did Steven Paddock choose to commit this senseless act? Did he have a heart? How could anyone possible have the strength to do this without mercy?This is so shocking because no one saw it coming. Steven Paddock wasn't tied to any international terrorist group. There doesn't seem to be a specific reason. All those people that went to the concert just wanted to enjoy it, and return back home. It is truly devastating. The best we can do is pray, and hope for the recovery of those who have been inflicted. When a tragedy like this happens, just remember that life is precious. If anyone feels like they could use the support, head to the Health and Wellness connection on campus. For those in Vegas, for those who personally know the victims, and others who are having a hard time struggling to comprehend this situation, my heart and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Angelica
