US President denounces the tragic incident as “shocking and unconscionable,” urges Congress to take action against gun violence
Washington DC [US], December 17: US President Joe Biden on Monday strongly condemned the tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, which resulted in two deaths and six injuries. Describing the incident as “shocking and unconscionable”, President Biden emphasized the urgent need for legislative action to address the “scourge of gun violence” in the country.
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In a statement released by the White House, President Biden expressed his deep sorrow for the victims and their families.
“Today, families in Madison, Wisconsin, are grieving the loss of those who were killed and wounded. It’s shocking and unconscionable. We need Congress to act. Now,” Biden stated.
Highlighting previous tragedies, such as Newtown, Uvalde, and Parkland, he stressed that children should not have to fear for their safety in classrooms.
“Every child deserves to feel safe in their classroom. Students across our country should be learning how to read and write – not how to duck and cover,” he added.
The Tragic Incident
As reported by CNN, the shooting incident occurred on Monday, leaving two dead and six others injured. The suspect, a 17-year-old student, was found dead at the scene, reportedly from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes.
The victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, with Madison Fire Chief Chris Carbon confirming that emergency services responded promptly to the crisis.
Biden Calls for Gun Reforms
President Biden reiterated his administration’s efforts to combat gun violence, highlighting significant steps taken under his leadership, including passing the most substantial gun safety legislation in decades and establishing the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
However, he stressed that these measures are not enough and urged Congress to pass commonsense gun safety laws, including:
- Universal background checks
- A national red flag law
- A ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines
“My administration has taken aggressive action to combat the gun violence epidemic. But more is needed,” Biden asserted, adding that the US cannot “accept senseless violence that traumatizes children, their families, and tears entire communities apart.”
Gratitude to First Responders
President Biden also commended first responders, local law enforcement, and the FBI for their swift action. He affirmed that federal support has been extended to local officials to assist in managing the aftermath of the tragedy.
Investigation Updates
Authorities have confirmed that the suspect was a female student, marking a rare demographic in school shootings, according to a law enforcement source cited by CNN. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have yet to disclose additional details.
