So far in 2023, the City of Tallahassee has witnessed a total of 83 shootings, according to data maintained by the Tallahassee Democrat.
In those shootings, 71 people were injured and 21 people lost their lives. The month of September in particular was a sad month for the capital city, as two minors lost their lives in separate accidental incidents in less than a week. Both were due to improper firearm storage, according to officials.
On Sept. 1, the Tallahassee Police Department responded to a 14-year-old boy who was shot. The victim was transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Investigation revealed that the shooter was the victim’s 8-year-old relative who was holding the firearm when it went off, hitting the victim.
Five days later, on Sept. 5, police responded to a 1-year-old who was shot. The victim was transported to the hospital where he soon succumbed to his injuries. The baby was left unattended with another 1-year-old relative and the gun went off, striking the victim.
State Senator Tina Polsky represents the Broward County district that includes Parkland, the city of the No. 11-ranked most deadly mass shooting in the United States. In February 2018, 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School fatally shooting 17 people and injuring 17 others
Since the shooting, there has been a host of gun laws have been filed around Florida aimed at preventing mass shootings, accidental and intentional shootings.
“Let’s keep fighting to keep our children safe,” Polsky said in a recent interview. “Gun violence is the No. 1 killer of children.”
To combat gun violence and gun deaths, Polsky has introduced Senate Bill 176. The bill is aimed at improving gun safety measures and enforcing stricter laws on firearms not stored properly, especially around minors.
“Senate Bill 176 will strengthen efforts to enhance responsible gun ownership by ensuring that guns are safely stored when not in use. Safe gun storage is especially effective in keeping guns away from minors who might otherwise obtain guns from a friend or relative.” Polsky said.
Angela Sherrod, a public information officer for the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, urges parents to educate their children about firearm safety to prevent accidents. “Parents should initiate open and honest conversations with their children about the dangers of firearms and the importance of never handling them without adult supervision. Demonstrate responsible behavior by always securing firearms with gun locks and storing them in locked cabinets or safes,” she said.
Sherrod said that community engagement is a top priority at LCSO. “We actively collaborate with local organizations, schools, and community groups to raise awareness about responsible firearm storage practices,” Sherrod said. “Our deputies conduct educational programs, workshops, and distribute informational materials that emphasize the importance of securing firearms. We also organize community events where residents can obtain free gun locks and receive hands-on guidance on proper storage techniques.”
To help further ensure the safety of others, SB 176 will require a basic firearm safety brochure be given to a gun purchaser at the time of sale. According to Polsky, “The brochure would need to include a variety of information, including but not limited to: rules for the safe handling, storage, and use of firearms, a list of locations where handguns are prohibited, and an offer of a demonstration of how to use a firearm locking mechanism.”
The past incidents in Tallahassee have served as a reminder of what can happen when guns are not properly stored. SB 176 is aimed at preventing tragedy and creating a change that will positively impact the state and keep everyone safe.
For more information on SB 176, visit https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/176/BillText/Filed/PDF. If you are interested in attending a gun safety program held by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, visit https://www.leoncountyso.com/Citizen-Center/Resources/Crime-Prevention.