Statement of CeaseFirePA on Today’s Mass Shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue

Pittsburgh, PA, October 27, 2018 — CeaseFirePA is saddened and horrified by today’s mass murder at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh.   So far, we know that at least  eight people have been killed, with others shot and injured, including three  police officers.  We have also learned the killer was armed with the mass shooter’s weapon of choice, an AR-15, along with several  handguns.

Today’s deadly attack demonstrates why we need to disarm hate. Shira Goodman, Executive Director of CeaseFirePA, offered this: “We deserve to be safe where we live, work, learn, play and pray.  Too many times America has witnessed armed attackers devastating our holy spaces.  It is time for America to deal with its gun violence problem — which, at bottom, is a gun problem.”

CeaseFirePA has staff on the ground in Pittsburgh and will be there to stand with the community.  We know that this should not be a new normal. And we stand with Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth demanding that our policy makers demonstrate the will and commitment to keep us safe.