MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – Local 24 News political analyst and commentator Otis Sanford shares his point of view on the frustration over highway shootings in the Mid-South.
There is a sense of frustration taking place withMemphis police – and Memphis residents – over the ongoing rash of shootings onhighways around the city. And some of the blame is being placed squarely at thefeet of Tennessee lawmakers.
The latest shooting occurred Wednesday morning in thenorthbound lanes of I-240 near Union in Midtown. That incident follows anothershooting a day earlier along Bill Morris Parkway.
MPD and state police are now increasing their presenceon interstates and roadways where at least seven shootings have occurred so farthis year. And officers will be patrolling in unmarked vehicles as well asmarked cruisers.
The frustration is understandable. Because theshootings are senseless. They put innocent motorists and passengers at risk ofinjury or worse. And one police official is attributing the increase inshootings to a 2014 state law allowing gun owners to keep their weapons intheir cars – with or without a permit.
Deputy Chief Sam Hines says the law has resulted in ajump in gun thefts from vehicles. Plus, where motorists used to scream, curse,and flash obscene hand gestures at other drivers, some are now firing gunsinstead.
Of course, most lawmakers will call that nonsense. Butit’s not. More guns in cars mean more bullets flying on the roadways.Thankfully, law enforcement is doing what it can to stop it. Because thelegislature never will. And that’s my point of view.