The Overlooked Truth: Why Guns Used in Santa Fe Mass Shooting Don’t Fit the Media Narrative

Recent reports on the Santa Fe mass shooting reveal a revealing pattern in media coverage. Why were the specific firearms used in this tragic incident not reported? This oversight raises questions about the media's selective reporting and its alignment with certain narratives, particularly those surrounding gun control and the Second Amendment.

The Media's Narrative and the 2nd Amendment

It is crucial to note that the media has painted a certain narrative regarding firearms used in mass shootings. This narrative often centers on the notion that only highly sophisticated and lethal weapons can cause mass casualties, thereby advocating for stricter gun control measures. However, such a narrative disregards the reality that simpler, more easily obtainable firearms can be just as deadly, as demonstrated in the Santa Fe case.

The Specific Guns Used: A Closer Look

According to reports, the shooter in the Santa Fe mass shooting utilized a 38 Special revolver and a simple shotgun. These firearms, while not assault weapons, are readily available and commonly owned by many Americans. The 38 Special revolver, typically carrying 5-6 rounds, and the pump-action 12 gauge shotgun are classic weapons that many consider basic and non-threatening. However, these weapons are capable of causing significant harm, often within the confined space of a school environment.

Effectiveness of Simple Firearms

The effectiveness of these firearms in causing deaths and injuries is often underreported. An AR-15 round, while more powerful, can be matched in lethality by a well-placed 38 Special revolver. The revolver can be quickly reloaded, and the shotgun can be swiftly loaded with multiple rounds. The shooter's quick access to these weapons suggests a level of ease and availability that should be addressed in discussions about gun control.

The Myth of "Safer" Weapons

Joe Biden's assertion that shotguns are safer for home defense is a common misconception. A 12 gauge shotgun, loaded with 00 buckshot, can fire nine projectiles at once, each approximately the size of a 9mm bullet. These projectiles can penetrate the body as deeply as typical pistol rounds. Adding to the chaos, the shooter in Santa Fe carried several explosives, which fortunately failed to detonate. Despite this, the media seems to focus more on the quantity of weapons and less on their actual capabilities and availability.

Implications for Media Reporting

The media's selective reporting on the guns used in the Santa Fe mass shooting reveals a bias that has become alarmingly common. By focusing only on certain types of weapons, the media distorts the public's understanding of the risks and realities of firearm usage in a society where simpler firearms are widely accessible. This selective reporting can lead to misguided policies and public perceptions, further muddying the debate surrounding gun control.

Conclusion: The Larger Problem

The media's focus on specific firearms in mass shootings often overlooks the broader issue of firearms in American society. The Santa Fe shooting demonstrates that even "primitive" weapons can cause significant harm, and that the problem lies with the proliferation and accessibility of firearms, not just with a few specific types. It is imperative that the media and policymakers address this issue with a more comprehensive understanding of the firearm issue in America.