Contact: Brian Pacheco, Director of Public Relations
t. 212-577-7709 | c. 646-306-1136 | e. Brian.Pacheco@safehorizon.org
February 15, 2018 (NEW YORK, NY) – Safe Horizon is heartbroken by yet another devastating incident of mass gun violence, this time in a high school in Parkland, Florida. The shooting occurred on Valentine’s Day, a day that is commonly associated with acts of love and kindness. Instead, at least 17 children and adults were tragically killed, with many others injured. The alleged assailant, Nikolas Cruz, is in police custody and has been charged so far with 17 counts of premeditated murder, one for each of the students and adults he killed.
In response to this horrifying attack, Safe Horizon CEO Ariel Zwang offers the following statement:
“How many more lives must be taken before Congress and the President tackle our nation’s epidemic of gun violence? Yes, we recognize the many factors that contribute to these tragedies, including the need to effectively recognize and treat mental health issues. But the real issue here is increasingly easy access to guns, including semi-automatic assault rifles like the one used in yesterday’s tragedy. From Columbine to Sandy Hook to Parkland, too many lives have been lost as a result of mass shootings—our federal government can no longer wait to act. Safe Horizon calls on the President and federal lawmakers to enact meaningful and common sense solutions to this epidemic of gun violence now.”
“As a mother, my heart goes out to each and every parent who lost a child in yesterday’s attack. Their loss is every parent’s worst nightmare. At Safe Horizon, we hope that all those affected, especially the victims and their loved ones, are getting the support they need during this incredibly difficult time. We send our heartfelt condolences to anyone who lost their child or a loved one.”
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About Safe Horizon
Safe Horizon empowers victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking to move from crisis to confidence – touching the lives of 250,000 New Yorkers every year.