California shooting victim's father lashes out at gun lobby, politicians
A man whose son was among six dead in a shooting and knife rampage in California blamed politicians and the gun lobby, asking in an emotional and at times angry speech: "When will this insanity stop?"
A man whose son was among six dead in a shooting and knife rampage in California blamed politicians and the gun lobby, asking in an emotional and at times angry speech: "When will this insanity stop?"
Richard Martinez choked up several times as he paid tribute to his son who was killed on Friday when a gunman opened fire in a bustling California college town - the latest armed massacre in the United States and one likely to trigger more passionate debate about gun rights.
"My son's name was Christopher Ross Martinez, he was 20 years old, and he died last night," Martinez told reporters, his face contorted with despair and rage.
"Our family has a message for every parent out there: you don't think it'll happen to your child until it does," he said, reading from a family statement.
"Chris was a really great kid, ask anyone who knew him. His death has left our family lost and broken."
His voice shaking with emotion, Martinez criticised politicians and the powerful National Rifle Association. "Why did Chris die? Chris died because of craven, irresponsible politicians and the NRA," Martinez said, raising his voice. "They talk about gun rights. What about Chris' right to live? When will this insanity stop? When will enough people say stop this madness? We don't have to live like this.
"Too many have died. We should say to ourselves: 'Not one more'."
