UVALDE, TEXAS - MAY 24: Law enforcement officers speak together outside of Robb Elementary School following the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022 in Uvalde, Texas. According to reports, 19 students and 2 adults were killed, with the gunman fatally shot by law enforcement. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
One day after an 18-year-old armed with an AR-15 style rifle gunned down 19 children and two teachers, the NRA kept their official statement about the mass shooting tight.
The National Rifle Association of America denounced the act allegedly carried out by Salvador Ramos. However, they did not refer to the incident as a mass shooting nor mentioned gun safety. Instead, the NRA extended its “deepest sympathies” and recognized “the courage” among officials.
“Our deepest sympathies are with the families and victims involved in this horrific and evil crime,” the statement said. “On behalf of our members, we salute the courage of school officials, first responders and others who offered their support and services.”
On Wednesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott described some official findings during a press conference, per CNN. Gov. Abbott said Salvador shot his 66-year-old grandmother in the face and fled the scene. She survived and contacted the police. He had an accident near Uvalde’s Robb Elementary School during his escape. Following the accident, Salvador entered the school and began firing into classrooms. Reports say he was on the premises for about an hour before police forced their way into a classroom and killed the accused shooter.
In their statement, the NRA mentioned the ongoing mass shooting investigation. Police have yet to identify the deceased shooter’s motive but did learn he purchased two assault rifles on his 18th birthday. To the NRA, the attack has everything to do with the shooter himself–not the weapons used in the attack.
“Although an investigation is underway and the facts are still emerging, we recognized this was the act of a lone, deranged criminal,” the statement said. “As we gather in Houston, we will reflect on these events, pray for the victims, recognize our patriotic members, and pledge to redouble our committment to making our schools secure.”
The NRA also confirmed their weekend plans to host a convention in Houston–just miles from the community devastated by the killings. Former President Donald Trump is on the guest list, Texas Gov. Abbott and Texas Senator Ted Cruz. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner declined to cancel the gathering despite mounting calls from the public to do so.
“The convention has been on the books for more than two years,” Mayor Sylvester said per CBS News. “It’s a contractual agreement. We simply cannot cancel a conference or convention because we do not agree with the subject matter.”
On Wednesday, President Joe Biden signed an executive order targeting police reform, including chokeholds and no-knock warrants and the transfer and purchase of military equipment.
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