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May 28, 2014

Father of Slain Victim Urges Pressure on Congress for Gun Control 
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The shooter in the University of California, Santa Barbara, killings had
three semiautomatic handguns, all purchased legally. The father of one
of the slain victims is now vowing to continue speaking out in favor of
gun control. Richard Martinez, whose 20-year-old son Christopher was
killed, made headlines immediately following the attack after calling
out the National Rifle Association and politicians who stand in the way
of gun reform. On Tuesday, Martinez said he rejects condolences from
lawmakers, saying: "I don't care about your sympathy. … Get to work
and do something." Martinez says he is calling on all Americans to send
a postcard to Congress demanding the passage of gun reform laws.
Speaking at Tuesday's memorial, Martinez read a letter from another
grieving parent.

Richard Martinez: "My dearest son Weihan David: Mom and Dad are very
proud of you. Your sacrifices weren't in vain. Your sacrifice will wake
the power and authority of America. It's time to stop the gun violence.
Our children deserve a land free from fear. Son, you will be at peace in
the hands of God."

According to the Gun Violence Archive, firearms have killed more than
4,100 people in the United States since January 1 of this year.

 

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