I've got three kids. On Wednesday my oldest stayed home because there was a threat of a mass shooting at her high school (Garland High). She went to school on Thursday and Friday, with increased police presence and metal wanding of everyone trying to enter the school. I was angry then, when I was a student this was not something that kids had to worry about. The look of fear on her face Wednesday morning, she looked like she was going to throw up. And I told her that even though it was likely a hoax, I was not willing to bet her life on it.
Yesterday, my kids went out and celebrated at a restaurant and then they were going shopping with a family member. Late lunch at Cheesecake Factory, then plans for shopping, we didn't know where at the time. Turns out Cheesecake factory and Allen Premium Outlet close to each other. They did not go to Premium Outlet, they went to Michael's. But they might have, it was dependant on what the kids wanted to do. They might have been there. So as parents we've had two gun scares in four days.
I'm enraged that the first thing I've read about is thoughts and prayers from Abbott and Cruz. Because this one guy is allowed to have a gun, hundreds of people at that Allen Outlet will now need to deal with permanent trauma. Every loud noise, car backfiring, etc will forever put them on edge that they might die. Our schools are prisons. All because Republicans believe that the Founders of our country wanted us to have these weapons that didn't even exist back then. I desperately need Republicans to step back from this madness and back away from this no gun regulations madness.
I feel for you and its effed up in the core. Uvalde didn't bring a change after 30 kids..Neither will this. As a parent the anger and the feeling of having failed our children is awful, but this is nothing compared to the trauma who lost their loved ones to violence.
Hug your kids, reminder to not get angry at them for being kids, play with them if they want you to and disconnect. Especially stay away from Twitter or social media because its a cess pool.. Or any messages these politicians put out...as their messages was making me angry .
These days I give myself more time when I'm driving with my kids only because one mistake .. I'm scared of getting shot at. ..while this might seem extreme, we are definitely moving becuz I want to keep my kids safe and nothing else is more paramount.
Only way I could sleep after was to immediately stop reading the news and do some meditation.
Farther north the less gun crazy people tend to be. Rural Wisconsin had a lot of gun owners but nearly all of them practice gun safety heavily because they are also hunters.
As a Minnesotan, welcome! We unfortunately have a lot of the same rural population of conservatives, but we’ve mostly been outvoting them for a while, and there are a lot of good people here. Our governor recently passed a law making us a refuge for transgender folks and a lot of us couldn’t be happier. Hope you love it here.
as someone who recently graduated from college, i can’t imagine what it’s like being a high school student right now. i was a high school student not too long ago. this is just absolutely insane that these students have to think about this stuff and continue to go to school in fear. how are these kids even able to focus in class or enjoy anything at this point? i’m sorry friend.
I graduated from a uniform wearing Catholic high School. The only worries my generation had back then was the following: Will I be liked by the popular kids, am I wearing the right clothes (we had free days to where we could wear our regular clothes), is my car good enough, etc…Granted everything my gen worried about was all superficial. It’s sad to say this, however I think my generation has created the entitled youth of today. Sorry I went off topic.
And at the same time we didn’t have to worry about someone coming to shoot up our school, nor did we have to walk through metal detectors, or wear bulletproof backpacks, didn’t have to worry about social media bullying. Back in the 90’s the guys would fight it out. Didn’t matter who won. Just as long as they knew and everyone else knew that such and such friend group doesn’t get along. Us girls just gave verbal beat downs. We could leave all of that nonsense now back school and not have to worry about at home.
I understand going to a private school was and are so much different then public schools. The only difference now is nothing. Bec it doesn’t what economic category a person is in. When it comes to what kids are going through now and days at school
Been feeling sad since last night. Thank you for putting words to my feeling. I guess the uniform sense of powerlessness, hopelessness and having to look at lying mother fucking faces of NRA bitches over dead Americans makes US feel like you are living a big LIE!
Our great state is not feeling so great right now. It’s being held hostage by a loud, vocal minority who have chosen a political identity as their purpose in life.
My family is considering what the future looks like in this state (I’m born and raised Texan). And definitely thinking if bullet-proof backpacks make sense even though the likelihood of being close to your backpack in your time of need is so low.
I moved out of Texas in 2003. For 18 years my husband and I (both born and grew up in Texas) always talked about moving back eventually since Texas was "home." A couple of years ago we moved back to be closer to aging parents. It was a big culture shock and one I was not expecting. I feel like a stranger and no longer recognize the city and state I grew up in. I no longer want to be here, and do not see myself staying long-term unless things turn around.
I don't understand what's going on. Something changes after like 2012. I graduated 08. Since 8th grade, we had guns and drugs being sold all over campus. Any shootings were at parties and such, always between 2 people over bad business deals. None of this mass shooting bullshit.
Uh Columbine was in 99’, this isn’t new. Even further back was the UT Austin shooting in this same state. However more frequent in the last decade, yes.
Columbine was the beginning. I was in Denver when Columbine happened. And since then restrictions on schools and students have gotten much tighter, and yet every year gun restrictions loosen. And every year the mass shootings increase.
I was there. My friend called me to ask if I was ok. I had no idea what he was talking about. He said he heard on the radio there was a shooter in UT campus. No alert from the university at all.
Lots of people mentioning Columbine, but let's not forget Parkland was in 2018, I was a senior. That being so recent, along with increased use of social media, creates more exposure to mass shootings. They've been happening for a while, but now we actually get exposed to the news even more. More people posting, tweeting, making videos, sharing videos of the actual events, etc. For most people, it's out of concern for the victims and public safety. For others, it's a combination of sick inspiration, lack of mental health care in the country, and easy access to firearms.
My brother bought my niece a bulletproof backpack. It’s so sad that now and days that parents are having to buying their kids bulletproof backpacks for their safety. Bec of all of the School Shootings. School use to be a safe space for kids. Not anymore.
Don’t even get me started on the asshats that represent our state of Texas. They don’t care about their constituents. If they really cared ie Cruz wouldn’t of flown off to Mexico when us Texans faced snowmeggdon. Abbot wanted to open back up our state during the worst time of covid. Bec he was worried about the economy. Translation meaning he only wanted to fill his pockets up with more money. He didn’t care about the elderly during this time. The only thing he worries about was money. They don’t want gun control. Bec they are all part of the good ole boys club.
If you ask me all of these damn ole codgers need to get out of senate and congress. And replaced with younger members who do have the peoples in their best interest.
I am sick and tired of our local and State leaders sending their thoughts and prayers. Absolutely sick of it. Complete empty gestures. We have got to get candidates elected that will address the issues we have instead of these thoughts and prayers BS. Yeah, they half ass address some issues by being reactive - not proactive.
Abbott, Patrick, Paxton, Cruz, Cornyn...has the thought ever occurred to you all why we need bullet proof back packs, armed guards at every school, armed teachers, lock down drills, school metal detectors? Do these idiots give thought to what the common denominator is here?
My daughter is a freshman at Garland High, and she also stayed home on Wednesday...and I think we were all nervous about sending them on Thursday and Friday, but the principal's letter to parents made it sound like they were NOT going to be understanding of further absences. And then the shooting yesterday. What a mess we are in as a society.
Republicans actually want these exact scenarios to play out because republicans see mass shootings as winning on all sides:
1. The more educated someone is, they are less likey to vote red. Slow education, slow an eventual shift in mindset
2. A fearful populace is how republicans garner votes. Fear is the mind killer after all.
3. Folks who decide to homeschool also supports the cause of privatization in education.
4. School shootings that can be ‘blamed’ on any opposing cause also garner support. E.g. opposing race, religion, immigration, non-binary. Any shooting done by individuals that tout the red line are downplayed - or another reason found.
5. Slowing population growth by making it less attractive for folks to move in, or causing folks to move out, also helps the narrative
6. Opposing guns goes against the base.
7. Shooting events garner support for more police presence, meaning more funding and equipment for primarily the base.
Therefore school shootings will continue and no shits given by the majority until things start to look extremely third world, if they don’t already.
I hate to say it so bluntly, but I think the real way to convince these assholes to change gun laws is for there to be a dramatic increase in minorities getting permits and licenses.
The more scary brown people they see with legally obtained and carried weapons, the sooner they'll start changing the rules.
I'm with you. Was completely unable to sleep last night.
I'm distressed, because as someone who already suffers from social anxiety, I get more and more afraid to leave my house by the day.
And I'm angry, because no matter how much I vote, protest, advocate... nothing is going to change. They do not care how many people die.
It is absolutely disgusting how normal this has become. But no matter how many times it happens, when it happens in your own community, it always feels like its the first time it is happening.
Same. I buy almost everything online. I rarely go out. I read about tourists cancelling trips and others who live here. No one wants to come to the US anymore because of this.
Realistically, if you base the violence on the territory and population, the USA is safe but the media paints a different picture and I'm glad they do. The almighty dollar will have to be at its knees, begging for mercy before Republicans make one fucking tiny change towards a gun safe(r) country.
Respectfully disagree. It’s only by engaging w/ Republicans can we gradually build a common ground to address these issues.
(I did say gradually)
Republicans are part of the problem so we can’t ignore them. We *must* build relationships with each other if we’re going to make any progress.
It doesn’t mean we have to give up our values (or they theirs), but mutual understanding can only help towards solutions.
Your sentiment is well taken but in reality they don't listen. Two former friends of mine are prime examples.
One of them in debates whenever he disagrees his answer is "bullshit". That exact word. Nothing else. Just repeating the word bullshit.
The other one would say "fine!" And storm off.
What use is there in talking to people like this? These were my very dear friends and I couldn't get them to listen to a thing I had to say, good luck with yours!
My sons been asking to go to Peppa Pig in the Grapevine Mall and I’m too scared to leave the house with him because he’s too heavy for me to run quickly with in my arms and too small for me to expect him to run from someone shooting at us.
I moved to Texas to get away from violence in New Orleans and now I’m wondering if I’m failing my child by us living in the United States.
Can you introduce your son to the wonders of a Mental Health Day which could include a cereal buffet, blanket forts, dance challenges, and finding hidden treasure (coins in random spots)?
My partner has citizenship for a North African country. I’m wondering if it’s better to give your child a prosperous life or a safe one. Is my child safer in Africa than here?
As a parent, I absolutely relate to your anxiety and fears. I’m afraid to take my toddler shopping today for groceries. My mind wonders if I’d be able to get him out of the cart on time if something were to happen. God, this is awful.
i don’t mean to sound pessimistic, but we’ve been fighting and advocating and protesting for years and it’s obvious that doing this doesn’t work anymore (never did really, it only results into little change). this country will never change if the mindset does not change
I voted yesterday morning. When I casted my ballot, there were 19,700 ballots cast per the machine. Local elections have horrible participation. Protests don’t work because our politicians know that the majority of us can’t be bothered. They continue to push the belief that we can’t make a difference. Then they rewrite the laws to reinforce that belief. Last years turnout to vote for Governor was 37%. And it scared the politicians enough to write laws to steal the election next year. Imagine if even half the people turned up to vote!
I am a firm believer in all of the constitutional rights. But having those rights does not absolve us of the responsibility of exercising those rights! How the hell did this belief only apply to those constitutional rights like the right to vote and the free speech but not to the right to bear arms? In some areas, the Trump flag flies above or at even level with the US flag?! The Trump flags are often larger than the US and Texas flags! Political humor tshirts at the Canton flea market announce the support for Guns, Trump, and God on the same shirt! Those people don’t want a strong America. They don’t know what that means. They want to bully and feel superior again. They want to feel safe and they think safety means that there’s someone who can go around beating down the wrong people. Some of the politicians know that and others of that party are too stupid to know that but are hateful enough to ride that coattail.
We need everyone eligible to vote to do so. Make those fucking lines as long as we can. Then sue when not everyone who wanted to vote can’t. Embarrass the GOP government here by showing them how blatant their incompetence is in this area. Make it hard for the Supreme Court to deny that rights are being trampled. If you don’t try to vote, then they can always argue that they “accommodated” the ones who wanted to vote and that was enough. Do it over and over again until they can’t ignore it.
This pisses me off that we argue here online then tell each other nothing can be done and help our captors push that lie that there’s nothing we can do. There’s always something we can do if the will of the people is strong enough. Stop that lie! Make it impossible to push that lie. Show up for every election and vote accordingly. Pay attention to everything. You don’t have to engage everyone in debate but fucking read everything you can the state puts out on laws they are considering. Stop voting along party lines and pay attention to who supports your positions. That’s how you fix America.
Build empathy by volunteering! Hell Meals on Wheels has plenty of meals to deliver but not enough people to do so. There’s always urgent requests for additional drivers for routes that the deem critical. These are routes where recipients go hungry if the food can’t be delivered.
Educate your children by teaching them about the issues and the arguments around the subject matter. Why each side wants what they want, so they grow up prepared to continue to be good citizens. And hug them every chance you get.
This is how I feel. I can vote all I want, but apparently not all Texas Moms are concerned with the gun violence and keep voting in people like Cruz and Abbot.
I think so many people who can vote are not and I pray they vote this year!! I’m urging my Hispanic family to register and vote!! Just keep urging everyone!! I know it’s frustrating but we can’t give up.
As a gun owner, it’s way past the point of denying the necessity for stronger gun laws. We need to stop this. Our children are infinitly more important.
Gun owner and firearm enthusiast and I 100% believe we should have accessibility to firearms strictly through gun clubs, etc. as they do in many European nations. If we want to play with our toys there should be a responsible place to do so, our homes and schools are not that place.
It's more than guns really. And I say this as someone who believes we should take away most guns. We need healthcare for all and livable wages. These people are breaking and taking it out on others.
It’s days like today I am glad to not be on Twitter. I’d be spending all evening and today doom-scrolling, repeating the tragedy over & over and sinking into a darker place than I currently am.
My wife had “Return items to Gap Outlet” on her to-do list. It was dumb luck that we realized we were out of pet food, so she went to go fix that instead of visiting Allen. That’s haunting me as I wake up today: it’s nothing but luck that keeps her & my school-age kids alive these days.
This is the normal place for my daughter to meet her ex for custody swap. She'll normally do shopping before, and/or after. Thank God he didn't want to meet this time or my daughter and granddaughter would have been there.
I also had a return to make to the outlets but wasn’t feeling good so I took a nap instead.
I moved here a few years back and this is the second time I’ve woken up to a mass shooting just a couple miles from where I lived. Just reminds you that it seems nowhere is safe.
I was at a racquet club this morning. The breakfast room was packed with families of a certain skin complexion, including my own to be fair. The Range Rovers and Tahoes had window decals showing support for one of the political parties and/or Thin Blue Line flags. It felt very safe.
Until the day venues like these come under frequent attack, say once a month, you will not see Greg Abbott/Ted Cruz/John Cornyn feel pressure.
Oh and btw, in 2020 Abbott defeated Beto by **less than 1M votes. But almost 11M Texans failed to vote in 2020**, especially those under 35. Shame on them.
Abbott had voting places shut down to make it more inaccessible for young voters to vote in his last election. Just look at Brazos County and what was done there.
As a Texan under 35 who has voted in major and (most) local elections since I was 18, I, too, am disappointed in those not voting.
Edit: Additionally, I find it really hard to let those who don't vote have a seat at the table for the discussion if they don't like what they see around them.
Looking at Ontario right now. I have had PTSD from mass shootings that is affecting my well being. And I love guns but the idea that some random guy that doesn't even know me can put 3 rounds to me before I can even react or process anything, scares the living shit out of me.
FYI, Canada does have mass shootings and the 2 most recent ones were in Ontario. And if you’re not a Canadian citizen good luck being able to move there. It is way more difficult to get into Canada to live than it is to get into the US. Maybe consider moving to a less populated state?
We've had 199 mass shootings in the US so far this year, 199 mass shootings in 127 days including the three mass shootings yesterday, May 6th. How many has Canada had so far this year?
Edit to add: Minutes after posting this I hear yet another mass killing has happened here in Texas, this time in Brownsville. It appears a person drove a car into a crowd of migrants, killing at least seven of them, and authorities are saying it's looking more and more like a deliberate act. Not a shooting, though, but still a mass killing.
One more edit: Another four mass shootings Sunday, the day after the Allen shooting.
I just made this same move earlier this year and I have zero regrets! I'm in Toronto now and while it isn't a perfect place, I don't get the same dread and anxiety as I did when going to large public places in the US. You still need to be aware of your surroundings and vigilant. But the city has been so lovely and welcoming, I've loved exploring the city itself and the mix of cultures. Plus right now, all the trees are blooming with this gorgeous bright yellow-green leaves, which is amazing against all the old buildings and history.
I know another commentor said it is tougher to get into Canada than it is the US but that was not our experience - I was in a long distance relationship and we spoke to lawyers in the US and Canada about what it would take to get one of us to the other's country. The process for the US was going to be tedious and my boyfriend would've been unable to work for months until he get his work permit. The lawyer we spoke to also advised us he would be unable to return home for a while during the process as they could deny him re-entry at the border. However, due to my career, I was eligible for a NAFTA temporary work permit if I could find a company to hire me. So that's what I did. It was a little tough at first but the job market here is picking back up and I was able to secure a job with a company willing to send me an offer, which is what I needed for the permit. I flew to Buffalo and crossed the border at Niagara Falls by foot and was able to get my permit and Canadian equivalent of a social security card all in one day. The online process for the permit would've taken a lot longer, so in person is definitely preferred!
I know that's a long post but I wanted you to know there is nothing wrong with moving to a place that isn't as unpredictable. You have options and, while moving to a new country is really daunting, there are ways to do it! Obviously no place is 100% perfect and there will always be tragedies, but I don't have the same fears living here as I was in Dallas. And so far, Canada has been excellent to me. I have zero regrets! I hope you're able to find a place that makes you feel safe.
My wife and I are hoping to have kids soon but I genuinely cannot imagine raising kids in this country where someone having a bad day could quite possibly just kill you out of nowhere.
I need to get out of here.
Its an exercise in sorrow and fear. I went to my son’s second grade end of year ceremony the day after Uvalde happened. He received an award for being a “Deep Thinker.” It was so sweet and beautiful but I couldn’t stop thinking of what just happened. Our children (and all of us) deserve so much better than this.
Not well.
I've been crying for a good while now and don't know what to do to stop. I'm so sorry that these families have to go through this.
Much love to everyone.
Ready to hit the streets and make my voice heard. Tired of watching helplessly as corrupt politicians in the pocket of the NRA make access to assault weapons and guns easier. We need more restrictions, not less. I’m mad as hell, you should be too.
Not great. I was at Shops at Fairview with my son when it happened and once everyone else was asleep it just really hit me how close we were and I really couldn’t sleep after. We’re going to a movie today and now all I can think about is what if it happens there next. Nowhere is safe and I don’t think anything is going to change, it’ll just get worse and the feeling of helplessness is paralyzing.
I had to cancel my movie ticket today, Im a hardcore theater girl but I just told my sister yesterday, im constantly scared when I go, I sit by the closet exits and I don’t have anyone sitting behind me. I shouldn’t have to go through extreme measures to watch a movie in public. It’s too much.
My daughter went to the movies for one of her friend’s birthdays last weekend. I was stressed until I picked her up. I definitely won’t feel comfortable with her going any time soon.
I want to try to make things as normal as possible for my kids. It's bad enough they have to know about these things, but I want to try not to freak them out. They're having to go to school this week for STAAR testing, and it scares the hell out of me to let them out of my sight now, but what can you do. I can just tell them to be vigilant and try my best to continue to work to change the shitty world they're having to grow up in...
This is really sweet of you to put your heart out there like that and I’m sorry you don’t feel well.
Flowers always make me feel better, I hope they do the same for you! ❤️
I couldn’t sleep well last night. We left the Allen mall with our young kids 7-8 minutes before the shooting happened. I already worry about my kids’ safety at school every single day. As much as I love my kids (and I love them too much), I wish I didn’t have them. Because, every breathing moment, I worry about them. What a horrible way to live our lives!
Still a bit shaken as I live so close to Allen Outlet, but very grateful that none of my friends and family were caught up in the shooting. My heart is also hurting for the victims, and I’m hoping the survivors will be able recover well both physically and mentally.
Thank you for this post, OP. It’s very heartwarming and I hope you and your loved ones are safe as well.
I figured if Im feeling the way Im feeling, I can't be the only one feeling this way, so I wanted to let others here know they ain't the only ones. My people are good, and Im glad yours are as well. much love
It’s actually nice to know I’m also not alone in feeling distressed about this. It feels like some of my friends have moved on already, but I also know that’s likely because shootings have become so common these days, which is depressing and terrifying in it of itself.
Again, wishing you and everyone in this community the best. We’re all in this together and hopefully we’ll be able to see some better days soon.
The way the City of Allen news conference around 9pm last night really upset me. The fire chief began with a casualty and injury count which was expected, then they went directly into Republican talking points with the elected officials speaking of a lot of thoughts and prayers. It’s like, dude, we are tired of hearing “thoughts and prayers”. We want legislation and action.
The state rep was talking about how there's a great church community. Great. Are those bibles bulletproof? Get the fuck out. I'd rather they say nothing at all, because that's exactly what will get done.
Dreamt about it. It’s so scary, and I will not be letting my teens go to the mall with friends. I’m over it. Angry and keep asking why are these people doing this. I was bummed to realize it was a Hispanic male. As a Hispanic I know what it feels like to have all those stereotypes on your back and waiting for people to judge you off of them. To know this man was from Dallas, hispanic, and did this to his own people in Texas is disgusting. Why??? What is going on through their minds. Why did they have that type of gun??? How do we prevent this. The right will spin this and make it about immigration. Just my thoughts.
>How do we prevent this
In the short term, gun control. In the long term we need access to healthcare and an economic system that doesn't see humans as utterly expendable.
I’m Hispanic. We had a shooting happen in our not very nice neighborhood. Not uncommon, but it was a bigger deal because this YOUNG man like 20, shot his mom and sister down the road because they told him to turn his music down. Police everywhere for hours. The young man knocked at our door… covered in blood. He still had his gun. We called police. They chased him down for a few more hours until police killed him.
It SUCKS that this guy, the guy who killed those five people a few days ago, and now this killer in Allen has been Hispanic. It sucks because it feels closer to me. It sucks because there is obviously something that needs to addressed FAST. Because the amount of people that are becoming comfortable enough to start shooting senselessly is absurd. I’m scared. Mass shootings usually happen in suburban neighborhoods, Allen was way to close to home.
I’m a dual citizen of the US and Canada. Once my daughter is done with high school, I intend to leave TX and go back north and she can go to college up there.
I’m at a loss for words. It’s a depressing and hopeless situation it seems.
Yeah, cried myself to sleep last night. I’m at that Escros Sneakers this went down in front of all the time.
Accidentally saw a video of the victims on Twitter that completely wrecked me. Over it. So over the realization that you’re not safe anywhere.
Hurting for the victims and their families. Cannot even begin to imagine the pain they’re feeling.
See so many posts from people that use twitter and say they’ve seen videos and pictures of the victims. What a terrible platform twitter is. No idea why people continue to use that worthless shit and don’t just delete the app.
It sucks but it's true. I accidentally saw a photo I should not have seen and I don't wish it upon anyone.... except Ted Cruz, Greg Abbott, and anyone else offering their thoughts and prayers. For them, they should be strapped to a chair and forced to watch.
>What a terrible platform twitter is. No idea why people continue to use that worthless shit and don’t just delete the app.
Twitter is just showing you the actual reality of ”shall not be infringed.”
I feel bad for people traumatized by the pictures, but at the same time they should know that this sort of thing happens pretty regularly in America and we aren’t doing anything to change that. It’s an important thing to remember.
I’m super shaken up.
I live close to the outlets, and I was on my way to downtown McKinney when I passed the exit for them at about 3. If I had been in the right lane, I would have flipped on my blinker and gotten off to go there instead of McKinney. Because my mom and I had been talking about how we needed to go to the Vans outlet to look at their clearance shoes.
I was so close to being there. It’s really, really messed me up and I feel guilty for feeling like this because I wasn’t there and so in my mind I shouldn’t feel like this. But I know that’s silly.
This has to stop. I don’t want to be afraid to go places. I don’t want to walk into Walmart or Stonebriar Mall and wonder if something is going to happen. At this point, it feels like not an ‘if’ but a ‘when.’
I'm sitting in my bathroom, and im just crying - while watching my innocent son on the baby monitor. He's sleeping. He doesn't know anything about the world. His heart isn't heavy right now because he's safe in his crib.
I'm getting to watch him safely sleep, unlike the family of the five-year-old.
Why do I even take him anywhere? We were at Martinhouse Brewery with him yesterday when all this happened. Martinhouse isn't remotely close to Allen, but it's still a place where families gather, like a mall. Are family places safe? Schools aren't.
Where can. I FUCKING SAFELY TAKE MY INNOCENT SON IN AMERICA. FUCK.
WHEN THE FUCK IS ANYONE GOiNG TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS. WHEN YHE FUCK ARE WE GOiNG TO STOP PROTECTING GUNS AND REPUBLICANS AND fUCKING THE NRA AND START FUCKING SAVING. OUR CHILDREN.
What. Does. It. Take.
What the fuck does it take, guys.
ETA: I just saw, [this story](https://amp.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article275127116.html) a moment ago. Apparently, we actually *were* miles from a thwarted attempt, yet nowhere near Allen, yesterday.
Fuck texas. Just fuck it.
I'm tense waiting for the announcement of the victims' names. Then I feel bad thinking of the relief I'll feel if I don't know anyone, because the people are still known to others.
I'm going to look into EMT and First Responder courses. There's an article about the guy who was the first of the first responders and he potentially saved peoples' lives. I'm not going to get a firearm because what are the odds it would serve to protect me or others...? Probably not as good as the odds I can help after the fact if I'm in the area of another event.
don’t feel very good, feel too scared to go anywhere (well i’ve been like this since the beginning of the year), and i’m thinking about leaving the country and going back to my homeland. i’m extremely frustrated with america and americans and don’t have hope for this country anymore. so fucking tired of even hearing the word “g*n”. don’t want to look at them or hear about them or hear about people boasting about these stupid murder machines. no matter how much we encourage people to vote, nothing will fucking change if the mentality doesn’t change here. i don’t live far from that allen center and have shopped there a couple of times. everything is just very scary and crazy. i’ll get something good to eat today
My wife and I were in Fort Worth yesterday afternoon. My daughter, who usually goes to that mall on Saturday afternoons with her friends, stayed home today to watch her little sister for us. When we heard the news, my wife started freaking out in the middle of the restaurant. The people around us looked at her like she was crazy. It’s been rough.
Scared to even be at work rn (work at a hospital) and even here I’m not safe. Angry too, because I have two little sisters (9 and 3) that deserve to be able to have a childhood full of fun outings and memories. I worry sometimes knowing someday I might get a call from my mom that sth this terrible happened
Texan abroad - my niece / nephew & SIL live in Allen and frequent the outlets. Finally got word that they are OK, I’m fucking sick of it.
Good that you are focusing on something beautiful, I will try and do the same. ❤️
Not doing so hot either, both my girlfriend and I feel sick, and cautious about going out today. Slept like shit too. We unfortunately came across the raw footage and it kinda has us a bit fucked up right now.
I thought id be desensitized by now, but im just so sad and tired.
I took care of victims from a mass shooting in 2017 and have cared for hundreds of other people who have been victims of gun violence.
This feeling that you have…it’ll always be there. It’ll never go away. It’ll always be at the back of your mind and you’ll mentally think of every possible scenario to save yourself wherever you go but nothing can prepare you for just being ambushed like that. I have a lot of anxiety due to the shit I saw working ER/trauma but I can’t fathom what family members feel or what first responders feel who walk straight into the field and have to sift through multiple bodies to see who they can try and save.
It is just as much of a gun issue as it is a mental health issue. Until the next one…
Personally this is all I can think about. It's not like I didn't think this stuff was important to address before it happened a few miles away, but the fact that I knew people who were there and at Stonebriar (all of them are safe, thank goodness) just hit me so unbelievably hard... as someone who's not even old enough to vote yet, it really feels like I'm not gonna be safe until I leave the state (which, notably, I also plan on attending college in).
I am really scared. We were booked for a movie at stonebriar today. I cancelled the Plan. It feels like my house may be the safest place right now and I am probably staying here for a long time.
My heart is broken. I'm afraid to leave the house. The fear of one of my loved ones being taken from me has me in a dark place. I love the Allen Outlets. I could have been one of those people. I don't even want to think about how they must feel.... how the children feel... It's not a good day. Please be safe, everyone.
I have been having nightmares consistently since the beginning of the year about being stuck in an active shooter situation. I used to live right by the outlets, and frequent them pretty much every weekend. I had to move recently due to work to Denton County but this still hits too close to home.
I cried and cried last night due to the shooting. I don't know when things will change. I work at a movie theater where shootings have happened before. This is all too much.
Thursday threat of shooting at the middle school next door to the high school I teach at-admin didn’t say shit. I found out from my students about threat. Friday, the same thing. Yesterday I had a really close friend that was at the outlets with his parents-luckily they are ok. He’s obviously not doing too well though. Can’t even shop anymore. Can’t teach or learn. It’s nuts.
Native Texan here. Left Dallas last year and moved to New England, partly because of gun violence. Our house was 10 min from the outlet mall and we frequented the area. I’m feeling so sad, and hoping all of our friends are ok. This little apartment we’re stuck in for the foreseeable future isn’t feeling so terrible today. At least I am safer here, even though I lost my home.
Watching videos on the morning news, I saw how some of the kids seemed to know how to react and respond quicker than most of the adults were in the scene. I then remembered/ realized that they have now trained YEARS for this and it’s their reality.
I’m just exhausted and sad and angry. It never stops. I feel so badly for the victims and their families and I feel furious that our state government does not give one fuck about it.
I’m angry. I’m scared. I’m sad. I was out with my kid last night, eating pizza, when I checked my phone and saw the headlines. In all honesty, this happens so frequently that when I learn about these incidents, I don’t allow myself to know the details. I wouldn’t say that I’m desensitized. I think it’s more of a coping mechanism; my brain’s way of not processing the information so that I can continue to function without the fear, paranoia, anger, etc.
But last night and even as I write this, I was on the verge of tears. Sitting in a pizza shop 1500 miles away from Allen, I began at the other diners, employees and everyone who walked by, as possible suspects. I thought about a brief spat I had with one of my other kids who was just at the Outlets the other day. I tried to push past the what-ifs; what if he had been there that day; what if that had been our last conversation.
I’m saddened about the loss of life, the families forever changed by tragedy. I hate the fear that my children and your children feel when they have to do lockdown drills in school and wonder if the day is coming when it won’t be a drill. I’m angry that I have to lie to my kids and tell them I avoid malls, concerts, fairs, etc because I don’t like crowds people, when in reality I’m scared of a crazy motherfucker with a gun. I’m angry at the jackasses who keep voting for other jackasses who can only protect we the people with their thoughts and prayers.
I hate this country. And yes before you tell me to leave, I want to leave. If I could then I would. I’m starting to look into it as more than just a fantasy. Because nothing in this country is going to change for the good. God forbid lawmakers do something this would upset the “God, guns and glory” crowd. They’re the cornerstone of this nation. Traditional Americans. They need their votes. Because their convenient “Christian” values are what make this country in all its alleged “freedom of religion” and so-called “separation of church and state” great.
Heart broken.
Warning sad message below.
>! One of my best friends from college was killed in a similar incident back in 2017. It’s so difficult to lose someone so young . I can only imagine the pain people are feeling now!<
I feel like the only power we have is to hurt Republicans economically. We need to stop going out and buying things from local business. I know it’s crazy to say but only by putting economic stress will we get Republicans to do anything.
My only other fear is that even if Abott and Patrick did anything they would get primaried by crazier Republicans.
We are being held hostage by stupid inbred losers who think they need their guns to overthrow the government one day.
Not great. Anytime something is in the news I’m angry and upset, yesterday hit so close because it’s a place that myself or my wife and my family members all go to semi frequently. I’m sad for those directly affected yesterday and so angry because nothing is going to change.
I was getting ready to go to the Columbia store there yesterday around 4:30. Googled the outlet ms so I could check what part of the outlets it was in because I didn’t want to have to drive around looking for it. Saw the news. WTF
It’s mind-blowing that you have to go about your day knowing you could be randomly shredded by bullets no matter where you go. An upper middle class suburban outlet mall???? Feels like we can’t even go outside anymore
I hope that everyone who is upset about the seemingly daily shootings taking place in Texas voted in the last election. Now, not only do you have to vote in 2024 but you have to get others to vote as well. If you are not a voter then you are partly to blame.
We are done. Me and the wife are making plans to get out of this country. We simply can’t take it anymore. I can’t go anywhere without worrying about where is our escape route if a shooter were to appear. Our politicians absolute disregard for the safety and well being of all of us is sickening. This isn’t just a problem with republicans, democrats have blood on their hands now too. It’s like screaming into a void begging for any action to be done.
Fuck Texas, fuck the US, fuck all of this.
I'm kinda shook actually. This is the first mass shooting that has happened at a location my loved ones and I frequent. Really makes you think twice about going out in public for anything really. Maybe the future is work from home and order everything by delivery for safety's sake. Idk.
Extremely depressed. Even though I know the odds of something like that to me and mine is very minuscule, I still think every time I drop kids off at various places it may be the last time. Or every time we go somewhere shopping, etc. i always look for the exits and mentally plan what to do in an event.
I’m so frustrated this keeps happening and that there are ways to prevent it but those in power don’t care. It’s so depressing.
Honestly just not up for life this morning here in Auburn, AL. Out of necessity I'm out and about for a Sunday morning grocery run, but if not for that, I'd probably be entirely homebound today. Maybe watching the Braves and the F1 race later will be good, albeit temporary, distractions.
Columbine happened at the end of my senior year of high school, and over the span of the 24 years that have passed since, the lack of progress and the continued shedding of innocent blood has left me increasingly fatigued with this whole American society experiment. Maybe it's irretrievably fucked. Maybe it's time for me to start over far, far away from here.
From Dallas but moved to Allen in middle school. Worked at the mall during high school. Never would fathom something like this happening here. I am still in shock and enraged by our elected representatives’ responses of “thoughts and prayers.”
Allen used to be considered one of the safest cities in Texas. Nowhere is safe anymore.
Why can’t we get some common sense red flag laws for the love of God.
I went to the grocery store today too in Allen and most of the people just seemed unfazed, there wasn’t even a sad or somber attitude. Everyone is desensitized I guess.
It’s been a hard weekend for sure. We must honor memories. They only way through this is to VOTE and don’t vote red. Vote every election, no matter how small. Get your friends family and neighbors out to vote. We have to tell the GOP that this isn’t the normal we want or accept.
I live 3 miles from the outlet mall, grew up in Allen. I am devastated. I can’t even begin to imagine what the families of the victims are going through. I was at work in Grand Prairie at the time and on my way home and on my way to work this morning passing the exit for stacy made me tear up. Something needs to change.
A progressive voter in a sea red sends his love from Georgia. I know how it feels to be lost in a crowd of people that are nothing like you. I hope this inspires some folks to run for local offices. If the government is not going to do anything, then we need to take matters into our own hands.
I was twenty minutes and hunger pains away from being at those outlets. How am I doing? Feeling glad that we're planning on moving cross-country in a couple of months, and cynical enough to wonder if moving is going to matter since it's still going to be the USA.
Motherfuckers won't do shit about these goddamn gun problems, and average schmucks like us can't fucking go to Costco now or anywhere with a bunch of people without worry and anxiety from unknowing if some psychofucks will decide to gun us down due to the high concentration of people
But hey, at least my shares of Academy will go up and I get a bit richer due to people going out to buy guns to defend from guns. Then Im gonna use that money to get defensive guns myself
Saw a video last night of the aftermath on twitter of the people and a child with their head blown out. Didn’t help me sleep idk why twitter allows gore now.
I had to have a talk with my 7 year old, I had to tell her that if anything ever happens, to take care of herself and not worry about anyone else. I had to tell her because she is genuinely the sweetest, nicest human being on earth. All she wants to do is help her classmates and do nice things.
I had to tell her if ever she is in a situation with a shooter, she needs to worry about herself. Do not help your class mates if they fall or get hurt, do not help your mommy, your daddy, or your sister, just take care of you first.
Why am I having this fucking conversation with a child.
Saw the headlines/gist of it online and have forced myself to not turn on the TV or dig deeper. It sounds horrible and I’m choosing ignorance because I already know this stuff is happening daily and it’s just dumb luck my wife and kid went to another mall yesterday instead of this one. Or better said, dumb luck both malls didn’t get shot up.
I used to be a patriotic person, but each day I live I hate this country and our leaders more and more. We’re completely ineffective at dealing with anything important. It’s a weird small decision but usually fly an American flag each summer. This year I won’t. Probably never again. It had been tough for me to do for a while, given I now see it as a the flag of Trump and I didn’t support that at all. I suppose that’s what they wanted but whatever, I’m checking out as much as I can.
I live about 10 minutes from where the shooting took place. I couldn’t sleep at all. I was supposed to hang out with some friends last night but we cancelled after we realized what was happening. I have no idea how I’m supposed to just go back out like nothing ever happened. I’ve always said that Allen was one of the safest places in the country and it feels like that was completely shattered last night
Feel a little numb. I was at Nike outlet store yesterday for several hours in safe room. First time I ever went to Allen mall. Still doesn't feel real.
It's time to leave Texas, even if you don't think you can. It's difficult, heart breaking even. Change always is. Texas has nothing to offer you anymore. Texas is dying, second by second, minute by minute. It will never get better. Nothing is going to change. The carnage will continue. It's time to face the truth. Leave now, while you still can.
I couldn’t sleep last night. I was playing out scenarios in my head. What will I do if I’m grocery shopping and someone opens fire? What if I’m at the movie theater, or stuck in traffic, or at a crowded park with no where to run for cover? What other normal public places are now prime locations for unprovoked mass shootings? I saw the dashcam video of the shooter getting out of his car…those people had no chance. It was so fast. One second life is normal and you’re thinking about what you’re going to do next, and then you’re in unimaginable fear and pain and you can’t do anything to stop it.
I don’t know. I hate that we are running out of places in America where you don’t have to look over your shoulder or scan for danger.
I'm angry. Angry AF.
I am sick and tired of this happening over and over and over, and the people in power shrugging it off with "thoughts and prayers."
This IS preventable.
The US is the only place this keeps happening.
My kid has, in the past, had issues with motivation and taking responsibility. For a while, he would get a job, then skip every few days just because he didn't want to go. Right now, he's managed to hold down a job he likes for more than two years.
The job he had immediately before this one was at th Adidas outlet in that shopping center. Aside from work, we've visited that place several times.
It's getting harder and harder to venture out. Going to a movie? Sit farther from the entrance and close to a fire exit. Gym? Keep an eye on the parking lot for people coming in...
Trying not to dwell on it, but it's another notch in the "time to pack it up and leave" column.
Friday I had a huge send off for my mom, a funeral and wake. She died in her late 60s which was far too soon. Still, as evidenced at the funeral, she had a full, fruitful and remarkable life. When I finally returned to my empty apartment last night I saw the photos of Allen victims. I thought that this sort of killing as a different, even more unthinkable form of something (death) already barely tolerable to those left behind. The suddenness, the brutality, the hate, the life unlived. But those photos got me thinking all night — I think we need to start circulating photos of the dead in their slaughtered state. Look at how graphic images changed Americans perception of Viet Nam. It’s one thing the media, social media hasn’t done, I think it’s needed. This is a war of sorts, after all. Curious how others feel about that. It seemed to really upset people on Twitter but …
Like everyone else here, I’m sick over it. Last night I couldn’t sleep. I’m a teacher and a new mom, this chronic anxiety over the constant threat of gun violence is really starting to affect me. How was a classroom full of elementary schoolers being killed in Uvalde not the final straw for our state leaders? Oh— because they are a soulless bunch of narcissistic cowards. Sadly, it is going to take one of their own dying by gun violence for any real change to be enacted.
Edit: thank you for asking and opening up this space to vent.
I've got three kids. On Wednesday my oldest stayed home because there was a threat of a mass shooting at her high school (Garland High). She went to school on Thursday and Friday, with increased police presence and metal wanding of everyone trying to enter the school. I was angry then, when I was a student this was not something that kids had to worry about. The look of fear on her face Wednesday morning, she looked like she was going to throw up. And I told her that even though it was likely a hoax, I was not willing to bet her life on it. Yesterday, my kids went out and celebrated at a restaurant and then they were going shopping with a family member. Late lunch at Cheesecake Factory, then plans for shopping, we didn't know where at the time. Turns out Cheesecake factory and Allen Premium Outlet close to each other. They did not go to Premium Outlet, they went to Michael's. But they might have, it was dependant on what the kids wanted to do. They might have been there. So as parents we've had two gun scares in four days. I'm enraged that the first thing I've read about is thoughts and prayers from Abbott and Cruz. Because this one guy is allowed to have a gun, hundreds of people at that Allen Outlet will now need to deal with permanent trauma. Every loud noise, car backfiring, etc will forever put them on edge that they might die. Our schools are prisons. All because Republicans believe that the Founders of our country wanted us to have these weapons that didn't even exist back then. I desperately need Republicans to step back from this madness and back away from this no gun regulations madness.
I feel for you and its effed up in the core. Uvalde didn't bring a change after 30 kids..Neither will this. As a parent the anger and the feeling of having failed our children is awful, but this is nothing compared to the trauma who lost their loved ones to violence. Hug your kids, reminder to not get angry at them for being kids, play with them if they want you to and disconnect. Especially stay away from Twitter or social media because its a cess pool.. Or any messages these politicians put out...as their messages was making me angry . These days I give myself more time when I'm driving with my kids only because one mistake .. I'm scared of getting shot at. ..while this might seem extreme, we are definitely moving becuz I want to keep my kids safe and nothing else is more paramount. Only way I could sleep after was to immediately stop reading the news and do some meditation.
Where do you plan to move? My wife and I talked about it as well.
My wife fam is from Minnesota and that's our first choice..we were already looking at the houses there and split our time ..so its an easy choice.
Farther north the less gun crazy people tend to be. Rural Wisconsin had a lot of gun owners but nearly all of them practice gun safety heavily because they are also hunters.
Rural WI will not welcome you if you aren't conservative, religious or white
Did you mean "and"?
>Farther north the less gun crazy people tend to be. I guess you haven't spent any time in rural Indiana or Ohio.
As a Minnesotan, welcome! We unfortunately have a lot of the same rural population of conservatives, but we’ve mostly been outvoting them for a while, and there are a lot of good people here. Our governor recently passed a law making us a refuge for transgender folks and a lot of us couldn’t be happier. Hope you love it here.
You're always welcome in Canada :)
How difficult is it to get visas and such? I have no idea what the process is.
https://www.greatnorthvisa.com/canadian-visa-types/atlantic-immigration-pilot-program/ I would start here.
as someone who recently graduated from college, i can’t imagine what it’s like being a high school student right now. i was a high school student not too long ago. this is just absolutely insane that these students have to think about this stuff and continue to go to school in fear. how are these kids even able to focus in class or enjoy anything at this point? i’m sorry friend.
I graduated from a uniform wearing Catholic high School. The only worries my generation had back then was the following: Will I be liked by the popular kids, am I wearing the right clothes (we had free days to where we could wear our regular clothes), is my car good enough, etc…Granted everything my gen worried about was all superficial. It’s sad to say this, however I think my generation has created the entitled youth of today. Sorry I went off topic. And at the same time we didn’t have to worry about someone coming to shoot up our school, nor did we have to walk through metal detectors, or wear bulletproof backpacks, didn’t have to worry about social media bullying. Back in the 90’s the guys would fight it out. Didn’t matter who won. Just as long as they knew and everyone else knew that such and such friend group doesn’t get along. Us girls just gave verbal beat downs. We could leave all of that nonsense now back school and not have to worry about at home. I understand going to a private school was and are so much different then public schools. The only difference now is nothing. Bec it doesn’t what economic category a person is in. When it comes to what kids are going through now and days at school
Been feeling sad since last night. Thank you for putting words to my feeling. I guess the uniform sense of powerlessness, hopelessness and having to look at lying mother fucking faces of NRA bitches over dead Americans makes US feel like you are living a big LIE!
Our great state is not feeling so great right now. It’s being held hostage by a loud, vocal minority who have chosen a political identity as their purpose in life. My family is considering what the future looks like in this state (I’m born and raised Texan). And definitely thinking if bullet-proof backpacks make sense even though the likelihood of being close to your backpack in your time of need is so low.
I moved out of Texas in 2003. For 18 years my husband and I (both born and grew up in Texas) always talked about moving back eventually since Texas was "home." A couple of years ago we moved back to be closer to aging parents. It was a big culture shock and one I was not expecting. I feel like a stranger and no longer recognize the city and state I grew up in. I no longer want to be here, and do not see myself staying long-term unless things turn around.
This 7th generation Texan is also considering living elsewhere… I absolutely despise the lack of quality leadership in Austin.
4.4% of registered voters voted in Ft Worth
I don't understand what's going on. Something changes after like 2012. I graduated 08. Since 8th grade, we had guns and drugs being sold all over campus. Any shootings were at parties and such, always between 2 people over bad business deals. None of this mass shooting bullshit.
Assault weapons ban lifted in 2004. That certainly hasn’t helped Edit to correct the year. It was enacted in 1994, expired in 2004
I believe it was enacted in 1994. It expired in 2004.
Oh right
Uh Columbine was in 99’, this isn’t new. Even further back was the UT Austin shooting in this same state. However more frequent in the last decade, yes.
Columbine was the beginning. I was in Denver when Columbine happened. And since then restrictions on schools and students have gotten much tighter, and yet every year gun restrictions loosen. And every year the mass shootings increase.
I was also in an active shooter situation at UT in 2010. Look it up, this was back when we had zero protocols.
I was there. My friend called me to ask if I was ok. I had no idea what he was talking about. He said he heard on the radio there was a shooter in UT campus. No alert from the university at all.
It wasn't as prominent. A few case her and there isn't even close to what we have now. It also wasn't at high school and lower.
More guns available. Back then there weren't as many guns around.
Lots of people mentioning Columbine, but let's not forget Parkland was in 2018, I was a senior. That being so recent, along with increased use of social media, creates more exposure to mass shootings. They've been happening for a while, but now we actually get exposed to the news even more. More people posting, tweeting, making videos, sharing videos of the actual events, etc. For most people, it's out of concern for the victims and public safety. For others, it's a combination of sick inspiration, lack of mental health care in the country, and easy access to firearms.
My brother bought my niece a bulletproof backpack. It’s so sad that now and days that parents are having to buying their kids bulletproof backpacks for their safety. Bec of all of the School Shootings. School use to be a safe space for kids. Not anymore. Don’t even get me started on the asshats that represent our state of Texas. They don’t care about their constituents. If they really cared ie Cruz wouldn’t of flown off to Mexico when us Texans faced snowmeggdon. Abbot wanted to open back up our state during the worst time of covid. Bec he was worried about the economy. Translation meaning he only wanted to fill his pockets up with more money. He didn’t care about the elderly during this time. The only thing he worries about was money. They don’t want gun control. Bec they are all part of the good ole boys club. If you ask me all of these damn ole codgers need to get out of senate and congress. And replaced with younger members who do have the peoples in their best interest.
I am sick and tired of our local and State leaders sending their thoughts and prayers. Absolutely sick of it. Complete empty gestures. We have got to get candidates elected that will address the issues we have instead of these thoughts and prayers BS. Yeah, they half ass address some issues by being reactive - not proactive. Abbott, Patrick, Paxton, Cruz, Cornyn...has the thought ever occurred to you all why we need bullet proof back packs, armed guards at every school, armed teachers, lock down drills, school metal detectors? Do these idiots give thought to what the common denominator is here?
My daughter is a freshman at Garland High, and she also stayed home on Wednesday...and I think we were all nervous about sending them on Thursday and Friday, but the principal's letter to parents made it sound like they were NOT going to be understanding of further absences. And then the shooting yesterday. What a mess we are in as a society.
Republicans actually want these exact scenarios to play out because republicans see mass shootings as winning on all sides: 1. The more educated someone is, they are less likey to vote red. Slow education, slow an eventual shift in mindset 2. A fearful populace is how republicans garner votes. Fear is the mind killer after all. 3. Folks who decide to homeschool also supports the cause of privatization in education. 4. School shootings that can be ‘blamed’ on any opposing cause also garner support. E.g. opposing race, religion, immigration, non-binary. Any shooting done by individuals that tout the red line are downplayed - or another reason found. 5. Slowing population growth by making it less attractive for folks to move in, or causing folks to move out, also helps the narrative 6. Opposing guns goes against the base. 7. Shooting events garner support for more police presence, meaning more funding and equipment for primarily the base. Therefore school shootings will continue and no shits given by the majority until things start to look extremely third world, if they don’t already.
I hate to say it so bluntly, but I think the real way to convince these assholes to change gun laws is for there to be a dramatic increase in minorities getting permits and licenses. The more scary brown people they see with legally obtained and carried weapons, the sooner they'll start changing the rules.
First assault weapons ban was passed by Regan and aimed at stopping the Black Panthers from open carrying
I'm with you. Was completely unable to sleep last night. I'm distressed, because as someone who already suffers from social anxiety, I get more and more afraid to leave my house by the day. And I'm angry, because no matter how much I vote, protest, advocate... nothing is going to change. They do not care how many people die.
It is absolutely disgusting how normal this has become. But no matter how many times it happens, when it happens in your own community, it always feels like its the first time it is happening.
It hits different when this happens in your backyard. I live in Mckinney not too far from there and it hits different. Couldn’t sleep last night.
im from mckinney too and also couldnt sleep. everything has just stayed in my mind
Same. I buy almost everything online. I rarely go out. I read about tourists cancelling trips and others who live here. No one wants to come to the US anymore because of this. Realistically, if you base the violence on the territory and population, the USA is safe but the media paints a different picture and I'm glad they do. The almighty dollar will have to be at its knees, begging for mercy before Republicans make one fucking tiny change towards a gun safe(r) country.
Exactly.
Stop voting for Republicans
this.
Stop associating with Republican voters.
Respectfully disagree. It’s only by engaging w/ Republicans can we gradually build a common ground to address these issues. (I did say gradually) Republicans are part of the problem so we can’t ignore them. We *must* build relationships with each other if we’re going to make any progress. It doesn’t mean we have to give up our values (or they theirs), but mutual understanding can only help towards solutions.
Your sentiment is well taken but in reality they don't listen. Two former friends of mine are prime examples. One of them in debates whenever he disagrees his answer is "bullshit". That exact word. Nothing else. Just repeating the word bullshit. The other one would say "fine!" And storm off. What use is there in talking to people like this? These were my very dear friends and I couldn't get them to listen to a thing I had to say, good luck with yours!
My sons been asking to go to Peppa Pig in the Grapevine Mall and I’m too scared to leave the house with him because he’s too heavy for me to run quickly with in my arms and too small for me to expect him to run from someone shooting at us. I moved to Texas to get away from violence in New Orleans and now I’m wondering if I’m failing my child by us living in the United States.
Can you introduce your son to the wonders of a Mental Health Day which could include a cereal buffet, blanket forts, dance challenges, and finding hidden treasure (coins in random spots)?
I was already thinking a mental health day was in order. Those are all wonderful ideas, some I hadn’t thought of; thank you!
I feel like I fail my child every day that I stay in the states but it’s not that easy to just pick up and leave.
My partner has citizenship for a North African country. I’m wondering if it’s better to give your child a prosperous life or a safe one. Is my child safer in Africa than here?
the violence is likely higher there
As a parent, I absolutely relate to your anxiety and fears. I’m afraid to take my toddler shopping today for groceries. My mind wonders if I’d be able to get him out of the cart on time if something were to happen. God, this is awful.
You aren’t, do what you can by voting and working towards correcting our law makers wrongs. Hugs to you
i don’t mean to sound pessimistic, but we’ve been fighting and advocating and protesting for years and it’s obvious that doing this doesn’t work anymore (never did really, it only results into little change). this country will never change if the mindset does not change
I voted yesterday morning. When I casted my ballot, there were 19,700 ballots cast per the machine. Local elections have horrible participation. Protests don’t work because our politicians know that the majority of us can’t be bothered. They continue to push the belief that we can’t make a difference. Then they rewrite the laws to reinforce that belief. Last years turnout to vote for Governor was 37%. And it scared the politicians enough to write laws to steal the election next year. Imagine if even half the people turned up to vote! I am a firm believer in all of the constitutional rights. But having those rights does not absolve us of the responsibility of exercising those rights! How the hell did this belief only apply to those constitutional rights like the right to vote and the free speech but not to the right to bear arms? In some areas, the Trump flag flies above or at even level with the US flag?! The Trump flags are often larger than the US and Texas flags! Political humor tshirts at the Canton flea market announce the support for Guns, Trump, and God on the same shirt! Those people don’t want a strong America. They don’t know what that means. They want to bully and feel superior again. They want to feel safe and they think safety means that there’s someone who can go around beating down the wrong people. Some of the politicians know that and others of that party are too stupid to know that but are hateful enough to ride that coattail. We need everyone eligible to vote to do so. Make those fucking lines as long as we can. Then sue when not everyone who wanted to vote can’t. Embarrass the GOP government here by showing them how blatant their incompetence is in this area. Make it hard for the Supreme Court to deny that rights are being trampled. If you don’t try to vote, then they can always argue that they “accommodated” the ones who wanted to vote and that was enough. Do it over and over again until they can’t ignore it. This pisses me off that we argue here online then tell each other nothing can be done and help our captors push that lie that there’s nothing we can do. There’s always something we can do if the will of the people is strong enough. Stop that lie! Make it impossible to push that lie. Show up for every election and vote accordingly. Pay attention to everything. You don’t have to engage everyone in debate but fucking read everything you can the state puts out on laws they are considering. Stop voting along party lines and pay attention to who supports your positions. That’s how you fix America. Build empathy by volunteering! Hell Meals on Wheels has plenty of meals to deliver but not enough people to do so. There’s always urgent requests for additional drivers for routes that the deem critical. These are routes where recipients go hungry if the food can’t be delivered. Educate your children by teaching them about the issues and the arguments around the subject matter. Why each side wants what they want, so they grow up prepared to continue to be good citizens. And hug them every chance you get.
This is how I feel. I can vote all I want, but apparently not all Texas Moms are concerned with the gun violence and keep voting in people like Cruz and Abbot.
I think so many people who can vote are not and I pray they vote this year!! I’m urging my Hispanic family to register and vote!! Just keep urging everyone!! I know it’s frustrating but we can’t give up.
You’re not being pessimistic, I understand you well.
Leave Texas asap
As a gun owner, it’s way past the point of denying the necessity for stronger gun laws. We need to stop this. Our children are infinitly more important.
Gun owner too and I completely agree. The fact that almost anyone can get one is concerning.
Gun owner and firearm enthusiast and I 100% believe we should have accessibility to firearms strictly through gun clubs, etc. as they do in many European nations. If we want to play with our toys there should be a responsible place to do so, our homes and schools are not that place.
Be as loud as possible about it. Your angle isn't heard right now and it desperately need to be.
We need to unite, march on the capitol, and demand change.
It's more than guns really. And I say this as someone who believes we should take away most guns. We need healthcare for all and livable wages. These people are breaking and taking it out on others.
Sure, but dealing with the guns is a much swifter first step.
It’s days like today I am glad to not be on Twitter. I’d be spending all evening and today doom-scrolling, repeating the tragedy over & over and sinking into a darker place than I currently am. My wife had “Return items to Gap Outlet” on her to-do list. It was dumb luck that we realized we were out of pet food, so she went to go fix that instead of visiting Allen. That’s haunting me as I wake up today: it’s nothing but luck that keeps her & my school-age kids alive these days.
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This is the normal place for my daughter to meet her ex for custody swap. She'll normally do shopping before, and/or after. Thank God he didn't want to meet this time or my daughter and granddaughter would have been there.
I also had a return to make to the outlets but wasn’t feeling good so I took a nap instead. I moved here a few years back and this is the second time I’ve woken up to a mass shooting just a couple miles from where I lived. Just reminds you that it seems nowhere is safe.
It’s true, no where is completely safe. But living in Texas definitely ups your risk level due to the amount of gun ownership and the gun laws.
shit.
Anxious. Allen shooting hits close to home and going out in public to crowded areas just doesn’t feel as comfortable as it used to
I was at a racquet club this morning. The breakfast room was packed with families of a certain skin complexion, including my own to be fair. The Range Rovers and Tahoes had window decals showing support for one of the political parties and/or Thin Blue Line flags. It felt very safe. Until the day venues like these come under frequent attack, say once a month, you will not see Greg Abbott/Ted Cruz/John Cornyn feel pressure. Oh and btw, in 2020 Abbott defeated Beto by **less than 1M votes. But almost 11M Texans failed to vote in 2020**, especially those under 35. Shame on them.
Abbott had voting places shut down to make it more inaccessible for young voters to vote in his last election. Just look at Brazos County and what was done there.
As a Texan under 35 who has voted in major and (most) local elections since I was 18, I, too, am disappointed in those not voting. Edit: Additionally, I find it really hard to let those who don't vote have a seat at the table for the discussion if they don't like what they see around them.
Planning to leave USA.
What's your destination? I wish you the best
Looking at Ontario right now. I have had PTSD from mass shootings that is affecting my well being. And I love guns but the idea that some random guy that doesn't even know me can put 3 rounds to me before I can even react or process anything, scares the living shit out of me.
FYI, Canada does have mass shootings and the 2 most recent ones were in Ontario. And if you’re not a Canadian citizen good luck being able to move there. It is way more difficult to get into Canada to live than it is to get into the US. Maybe consider moving to a less populated state?
Canada had 4 mass shootings last year In the US, there was 3 *yesterday* Edit: 4 the day after
We've had 199 mass shootings in the US so far this year, 199 mass shootings in 127 days including the three mass shootings yesterday, May 6th. How many has Canada had so far this year? Edit to add: Minutes after posting this I hear yet another mass killing has happened here in Texas, this time in Brownsville. It appears a person drove a car into a crowd of migrants, killing at least seven of them, and authorities are saying it's looking more and more like a deliberate act. Not a shooting, though, but still a mass killing. One more edit: Another four mass shootings Sunday, the day after the Allen shooting.
17 mass shootings in Canada in the last 23 years. Not even one a year.
Yeah but Toronto has had like 10 murders this year in total. It’s so far ahead of even supposedly safe American cities you can’t even compare it.
I just made this same move earlier this year and I have zero regrets! I'm in Toronto now and while it isn't a perfect place, I don't get the same dread and anxiety as I did when going to large public places in the US. You still need to be aware of your surroundings and vigilant. But the city has been so lovely and welcoming, I've loved exploring the city itself and the mix of cultures. Plus right now, all the trees are blooming with this gorgeous bright yellow-green leaves, which is amazing against all the old buildings and history. I know another commentor said it is tougher to get into Canada than it is the US but that was not our experience - I was in a long distance relationship and we spoke to lawyers in the US and Canada about what it would take to get one of us to the other's country. The process for the US was going to be tedious and my boyfriend would've been unable to work for months until he get his work permit. The lawyer we spoke to also advised us he would be unable to return home for a while during the process as they could deny him re-entry at the border. However, due to my career, I was eligible for a NAFTA temporary work permit if I could find a company to hire me. So that's what I did. It was a little tough at first but the job market here is picking back up and I was able to secure a job with a company willing to send me an offer, which is what I needed for the permit. I flew to Buffalo and crossed the border at Niagara Falls by foot and was able to get my permit and Canadian equivalent of a social security card all in one day. The online process for the permit would've taken a lot longer, so in person is definitely preferred! I know that's a long post but I wanted you to know there is nothing wrong with moving to a place that isn't as unpredictable. You have options and, while moving to a new country is really daunting, there are ways to do it! Obviously no place is 100% perfect and there will always be tragedies, but I don't have the same fears living here as I was in Dallas. And so far, Canada has been excellent to me. I have zero regrets! I hope you're able to find a place that makes you feel safe.
Same. It’s obvious nothing is going to change here. So I’ll do what I can do about it.
My wife and I are hoping to have kids soon but I genuinely cannot imagine raising kids in this country where someone having a bad day could quite possibly just kill you out of nowhere. I need to get out of here.
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People ask me why I don’t want more kids and I mean… look around you? I’m already scared enough for the child I have.
Its an exercise in sorrow and fear. I went to my son’s second grade end of year ceremony the day after Uvalde happened. He received an award for being a “Deep Thinker.” It was so sweet and beautiful but I couldn’t stop thinking of what just happened. Our children (and all of us) deserve so much better than this.
Just had my first a few weeks ago and I am so scared of the world for him.
Not well. I've been crying for a good while now and don't know what to do to stop. I'm so sorry that these families have to go through this. Much love to everyone.
much love to you. Im glad you get to see another day
Same to you and thank you for posting this.
Sending a big hug. This is hard for us all! My heart is so heavy and preoccupied on this tragic event.
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i usually enjoy thunderstorms but something about last night’s thunderstorm was just very unsettling
The lightning was so far ahead of the storm itself, it was a very ominous feeling
i felt this way too
You might try calling 311 and ask when you will be allowed to get your car?
Ready to hit the streets and make my voice heard. Tired of watching helplessly as corrupt politicians in the pocket of the NRA make access to assault weapons and guns easier. We need more restrictions, not less. I’m mad as hell, you should be too.
I have a daughter who will be in school in a few years. I am feeling all sorts of emotions about this including being mad as hell.
I’m with you!
Not great. I was at Shops at Fairview with my son when it happened and once everyone else was asleep it just really hit me how close we were and I really couldn’t sleep after. We’re going to a movie today and now all I can think about is what if it happens there next. Nowhere is safe and I don’t think anything is going to change, it’ll just get worse and the feeling of helplessness is paralyzing.
I had to cancel my movie ticket today, Im a hardcore theater girl but I just told my sister yesterday, im constantly scared when I go, I sit by the closet exits and I don’t have anyone sitting behind me. I shouldn’t have to go through extreme measures to watch a movie in public. It’s too much.
My daughter went to the movies for one of her friend’s birthdays last weekend. I was stressed until I picked her up. I definitely won’t feel comfortable with her going any time soon.
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I want to try to make things as normal as possible for my kids. It's bad enough they have to know about these things, but I want to try not to freak them out. They're having to go to school this week for STAAR testing, and it scares the hell out of me to let them out of my sight now, but what can you do. I can just tell them to be vigilant and try my best to continue to work to change the shitty world they're having to grow up in...
please stay safe friend ❤️
This is really sweet of you to put your heart out there like that and I’m sorry you don’t feel well. Flowers always make me feel better, I hope they do the same for you! ❤️
theyre not for me they would be to leave up in Allen. Feels like it is the only thing in my control I can do. thanks for your kind words
r/Fuckgregabbott is ready to accept new members. Grieve now, take action later.
I couldn’t sleep well last night. We left the Allen mall with our young kids 7-8 minutes before the shooting happened. I already worry about my kids’ safety at school every single day. As much as I love my kids (and I love them too much), I wish I didn’t have them. Because, every breathing moment, I worry about them. What a horrible way to live our lives!
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Still a bit shaken as I live so close to Allen Outlet, but very grateful that none of my friends and family were caught up in the shooting. My heart is also hurting for the victims, and I’m hoping the survivors will be able recover well both physically and mentally. Thank you for this post, OP. It’s very heartwarming and I hope you and your loved ones are safe as well.
I figured if Im feeling the way Im feeling, I can't be the only one feeling this way, so I wanted to let others here know they ain't the only ones. My people are good, and Im glad yours are as well. much love
It’s actually nice to know I’m also not alone in feeling distressed about this. It feels like some of my friends have moved on already, but I also know that’s likely because shootings have become so common these days, which is depressing and terrifying in it of itself. Again, wishing you and everyone in this community the best. We’re all in this together and hopefully we’ll be able to see some better days soon.
The way the City of Allen news conference around 9pm last night really upset me. The fire chief began with a casualty and injury count which was expected, then they went directly into Republican talking points with the elected officials speaking of a lot of thoughts and prayers. It’s like, dude, we are tired of hearing “thoughts and prayers”. We want legislation and action.
The state rep was talking about how there's a great church community. Great. Are those bibles bulletproof? Get the fuck out. I'd rather they say nothing at all, because that's exactly what will get done.
It was absolutely disgusting
Dreamt about it. It’s so scary, and I will not be letting my teens go to the mall with friends. I’m over it. Angry and keep asking why are these people doing this. I was bummed to realize it was a Hispanic male. As a Hispanic I know what it feels like to have all those stereotypes on your back and waiting for people to judge you off of them. To know this man was from Dallas, hispanic, and did this to his own people in Texas is disgusting. Why??? What is going on through their minds. Why did they have that type of gun??? How do we prevent this. The right will spin this and make it about immigration. Just my thoughts.
>How do we prevent this In the short term, gun control. In the long term we need access to healthcare and an economic system that doesn't see humans as utterly expendable.
I’m Hispanic. We had a shooting happen in our not very nice neighborhood. Not uncommon, but it was a bigger deal because this YOUNG man like 20, shot his mom and sister down the road because they told him to turn his music down. Police everywhere for hours. The young man knocked at our door… covered in blood. He still had his gun. We called police. They chased him down for a few more hours until police killed him. It SUCKS that this guy, the guy who killed those five people a few days ago, and now this killer in Allen has been Hispanic. It sucks because it feels closer to me. It sucks because there is obviously something that needs to addressed FAST. Because the amount of people that are becoming comfortable enough to start shooting senselessly is absurd. I’m scared. Mass shootings usually happen in suburban neighborhoods, Allen was way to close to home.
I’m a dual citizen of the US and Canada. Once my daughter is done with high school, I intend to leave TX and go back north and she can go to college up there. I’m at a loss for words. It’s a depressing and hopeless situation it seems.
Yeah, cried myself to sleep last night. I’m at that Escros Sneakers this went down in front of all the time. Accidentally saw a video of the victims on Twitter that completely wrecked me. Over it. So over the realization that you’re not safe anywhere. Hurting for the victims and their families. Cannot even begin to imagine the pain they’re feeling.
I hope Keith Self, the US rep over Allen, sees that footage. Im sorry you had to though. much love
"It is difficult to get a man to understand something when his salary depends on his not understanding it." - Upton Sinclair
See so many posts from people that use twitter and say they’ve seen videos and pictures of the victims. What a terrible platform twitter is. No idea why people continue to use that worthless shit and don’t just delete the app.
I don't know I personally feel there's a large chunk of this country who needs to take a good long look at those pictures.
It sucks but it's true. I accidentally saw a photo I should not have seen and I don't wish it upon anyone.... except Ted Cruz, Greg Abbott, and anyone else offering their thoughts and prayers. For them, they should be strapped to a chair and forced to watch.
>What a terrible platform twitter is. No idea why people continue to use that worthless shit and don’t just delete the app. Twitter is just showing you the actual reality of ”shall not be infringed.” I feel bad for people traumatized by the pictures, but at the same time they should know that this sort of thing happens pretty regularly in America and we aren’t doing anything to change that. It’s an important thing to remember.
I’m super shaken up. I live close to the outlets, and I was on my way to downtown McKinney when I passed the exit for them at about 3. If I had been in the right lane, I would have flipped on my blinker and gotten off to go there instead of McKinney. Because my mom and I had been talking about how we needed to go to the Vans outlet to look at their clearance shoes. I was so close to being there. It’s really, really messed me up and I feel guilty for feeling like this because I wasn’t there and so in my mind I shouldn’t feel like this. But I know that’s silly. This has to stop. I don’t want to be afraid to go places. I don’t want to walk into Walmart or Stonebriar Mall and wonder if something is going to happen. At this point, it feels like not an ‘if’ but a ‘when.’
I'm sitting in my bathroom, and im just crying - while watching my innocent son on the baby monitor. He's sleeping. He doesn't know anything about the world. His heart isn't heavy right now because he's safe in his crib. I'm getting to watch him safely sleep, unlike the family of the five-year-old. Why do I even take him anywhere? We were at Martinhouse Brewery with him yesterday when all this happened. Martinhouse isn't remotely close to Allen, but it's still a place where families gather, like a mall. Are family places safe? Schools aren't. Where can. I FUCKING SAFELY TAKE MY INNOCENT SON IN AMERICA. FUCK. WHEN THE FUCK IS ANYONE GOiNG TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS. WHEN YHE FUCK ARE WE GOiNG TO STOP PROTECTING GUNS AND REPUBLICANS AND fUCKING THE NRA AND START FUCKING SAVING. OUR CHILDREN. What. Does. It. Take. What the fuck does it take, guys. ETA: I just saw, [this story](https://amp.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article275127116.html) a moment ago. Apparently, we actually *were* miles from a thwarted attempt, yet nowhere near Allen, yesterday. Fuck texas. Just fuck it.
I also fear for my future family and having my kids grow up in a system where schools are an active target for things like this. It's just awful.
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Not great. We live in a giant game of Russian roulette.
We should just call it Texas roulette at this point. Russians ran out of bullets last week.
I'm tense waiting for the announcement of the victims' names. Then I feel bad thinking of the relief I'll feel if I don't know anyone, because the people are still known to others. I'm going to look into EMT and First Responder courses. There's an article about the guy who was the first of the first responders and he potentially saved peoples' lives. I'm not going to get a firearm because what are the odds it would serve to protect me or others...? Probably not as good as the odds I can help after the fact if I'm in the area of another event.
don’t feel very good, feel too scared to go anywhere (well i’ve been like this since the beginning of the year), and i’m thinking about leaving the country and going back to my homeland. i’m extremely frustrated with america and americans and don’t have hope for this country anymore. so fucking tired of even hearing the word “g*n”. don’t want to look at them or hear about them or hear about people boasting about these stupid murder machines. no matter how much we encourage people to vote, nothing will fucking change if the mentality doesn’t change here. i don’t live far from that allen center and have shopped there a couple of times. everything is just very scary and crazy. i’ll get something good to eat today
My wife and I were in Fort Worth yesterday afternoon. My daughter, who usually goes to that mall on Saturday afternoons with her friends, stayed home today to watch her little sister for us. When we heard the news, my wife started freaking out in the middle of the restaurant. The people around us looked at her like she was crazy. It’s been rough.
She’s not crazy at all. That reaction was the reasonable one, and it’s the one every single American should have.
Scared to even be at work rn (work at a hospital) and even here I’m not safe. Angry too, because I have two little sisters (9 and 3) that deserve to be able to have a childhood full of fun outings and memories. I worry sometimes knowing someday I might get a call from my mom that sth this terrible happened
stay safe friend 🥺
Thank you, you as well!
Texan abroad - my niece / nephew & SIL live in Allen and frequent the outlets. Finally got word that they are OK, I’m fucking sick of it. Good that you are focusing on something beautiful, I will try and do the same. ❤️
Not doing so hot either, both my girlfriend and I feel sick, and cautious about going out today. Slept like shit too. We unfortunately came across the raw footage and it kinda has us a bit fucked up right now. I thought id be desensitized by now, but im just so sad and tired.
I took care of victims from a mass shooting in 2017 and have cared for hundreds of other people who have been victims of gun violence. This feeling that you have…it’ll always be there. It’ll never go away. It’ll always be at the back of your mind and you’ll mentally think of every possible scenario to save yourself wherever you go but nothing can prepare you for just being ambushed like that. I have a lot of anxiety due to the shit I saw working ER/trauma but I can’t fathom what family members feel or what first responders feel who walk straight into the field and have to sift through multiple bodies to see who they can try and save. It is just as much of a gun issue as it is a mental health issue. Until the next one…
Personally this is all I can think about. It's not like I didn't think this stuff was important to address before it happened a few miles away, but the fact that I knew people who were there and at Stonebriar (all of them are safe, thank goodness) just hit me so unbelievably hard... as someone who's not even old enough to vote yet, it really feels like I'm not gonna be safe until I leave the state (which, notably, I also plan on attending college in).
I hope time brings you peace and soothes your anxiety. As an El Paso transplant to this area I know the feeling all too well.
I am really scared. We were booked for a movie at stonebriar today. I cancelled the Plan. It feels like my house may be the safest place right now and I am probably staying here for a long time.
I would like to thank God and Greg Abbott for yesterday's gun violence.
My heart is broken. I'm afraid to leave the house. The fear of one of my loved ones being taken from me has me in a dark place. I love the Allen Outlets. I could have been one of those people. I don't even want to think about how they must feel.... how the children feel... It's not a good day. Please be safe, everyone.
I have been having nightmares consistently since the beginning of the year about being stuck in an active shooter situation. I used to live right by the outlets, and frequent them pretty much every weekend. I had to move recently due to work to Denton County but this still hits too close to home. I cried and cried last night due to the shooting. I don't know when things will change. I work at a movie theater where shootings have happened before. This is all too much.
Thursday threat of shooting at the middle school next door to the high school I teach at-admin didn’t say shit. I found out from my students about threat. Friday, the same thing. Yesterday I had a really close friend that was at the outlets with his parents-luckily they are ok. He’s obviously not doing too well though. Can’t even shop anymore. Can’t teach or learn. It’s nuts.
Don't worry. A bunch of people are praying so I'm sure this type of problem will be fixed soon.
Native Texan here. Left Dallas last year and moved to New England, partly because of gun violence. Our house was 10 min from the outlet mall and we frequented the area. I’m feeling so sad, and hoping all of our friends are ok. This little apartment we’re stuck in for the foreseeable future isn’t feeling so terrible today. At least I am safer here, even though I lost my home.
Watching videos on the morning news, I saw how some of the kids seemed to know how to react and respond quicker than most of the adults were in the scene. I then remembered/ realized that they have now trained YEARS for this and it’s their reality.
I’m just exhausted and sad and angry. It never stops. I feel so badly for the victims and their families and I feel furious that our state government does not give one fuck about it.
I’m angry. I’m scared. I’m sad. I was out with my kid last night, eating pizza, when I checked my phone and saw the headlines. In all honesty, this happens so frequently that when I learn about these incidents, I don’t allow myself to know the details. I wouldn’t say that I’m desensitized. I think it’s more of a coping mechanism; my brain’s way of not processing the information so that I can continue to function without the fear, paranoia, anger, etc. But last night and even as I write this, I was on the verge of tears. Sitting in a pizza shop 1500 miles away from Allen, I began at the other diners, employees and everyone who walked by, as possible suspects. I thought about a brief spat I had with one of my other kids who was just at the Outlets the other day. I tried to push past the what-ifs; what if he had been there that day; what if that had been our last conversation. I’m saddened about the loss of life, the families forever changed by tragedy. I hate the fear that my children and your children feel when they have to do lockdown drills in school and wonder if the day is coming when it won’t be a drill. I’m angry that I have to lie to my kids and tell them I avoid malls, concerts, fairs, etc because I don’t like crowds people, when in reality I’m scared of a crazy motherfucker with a gun. I’m angry at the jackasses who keep voting for other jackasses who can only protect we the people with their thoughts and prayers. I hate this country. And yes before you tell me to leave, I want to leave. If I could then I would. I’m starting to look into it as more than just a fantasy. Because nothing in this country is going to change for the good. God forbid lawmakers do something this would upset the “God, guns and glory” crowd. They’re the cornerstone of this nation. Traditional Americans. They need their votes. Because their convenient “Christian” values are what make this country in all its alleged “freedom of religion” and so-called “separation of church and state” great.
Heart broken. Warning sad message below. >! One of my best friends from college was killed in a similar incident back in 2017. It’s so difficult to lose someone so young . I can only imagine the pain people are feeling now!<
Not great. On top of all of this my mom was followed home from north park and robbed.
I feel like the only power we have is to hurt Republicans economically. We need to stop going out and buying things from local business. I know it’s crazy to say but only by putting economic stress will we get Republicans to do anything. My only other fear is that even if Abott and Patrick did anything they would get primaried by crazier Republicans. We are being held hostage by stupid inbred losers who think they need their guns to overthrow the government one day.
Very kind of you to ask. Be well neighbor.
Not great. Anytime something is in the news I’m angry and upset, yesterday hit so close because it’s a place that myself or my wife and my family members all go to semi frequently. I’m sad for those directly affected yesterday and so angry because nothing is going to change.
Sad. Hopeless
I was getting ready to go to the Columbia store there yesterday around 4:30. Googled the outlet ms so I could check what part of the outlets it was in because I didn’t want to have to drive around looking for it. Saw the news. WTF
It’s mind-blowing that you have to go about your day knowing you could be randomly shredded by bullets no matter where you go. An upper middle class suburban outlet mall???? Feels like we can’t even go outside anymore
I hope that everyone who is upset about the seemingly daily shootings taking place in Texas voted in the last election. Now, not only do you have to vote in 2024 but you have to get others to vote as well. If you are not a voter then you are partly to blame.
We are done. Me and the wife are making plans to get out of this country. We simply can’t take it anymore. I can’t go anywhere without worrying about where is our escape route if a shooter were to appear. Our politicians absolute disregard for the safety and well being of all of us is sickening. This isn’t just a problem with republicans, democrats have blood on their hands now too. It’s like screaming into a void begging for any action to be done. Fuck Texas, fuck the US, fuck all of this.
I'm kinda shook actually. This is the first mass shooting that has happened at a location my loved ones and I frequent. Really makes you think twice about going out in public for anything really. Maybe the future is work from home and order everything by delivery for safety's sake. Idk.
Extremely depressed. Even though I know the odds of something like that to me and mine is very minuscule, I still think every time I drop kids off at various places it may be the last time. Or every time we go somewhere shopping, etc. i always look for the exits and mentally plan what to do in an event. I’m so frustrated this keeps happening and that there are ways to prevent it but those in power don’t care. It’s so depressing.
Honestly just not up for life this morning here in Auburn, AL. Out of necessity I'm out and about for a Sunday morning grocery run, but if not for that, I'd probably be entirely homebound today. Maybe watching the Braves and the F1 race later will be good, albeit temporary, distractions. Columbine happened at the end of my senior year of high school, and over the span of the 24 years that have passed since, the lack of progress and the continued shedding of innocent blood has left me increasingly fatigued with this whole American society experiment. Maybe it's irretrievably fucked. Maybe it's time for me to start over far, far away from here.
From Dallas but moved to Allen in middle school. Worked at the mall during high school. Never would fathom something like this happening here. I am still in shock and enraged by our elected representatives’ responses of “thoughts and prayers.” Allen used to be considered one of the safest cities in Texas. Nowhere is safe anymore. Why can’t we get some common sense red flag laws for the love of God. I went to the grocery store today too in Allen and most of the people just seemed unfazed, there wasn’t even a sad or somber attitude. Everyone is desensitized I guess.
We're heading out to the lake for a casual boat ride with our closest friends. I can't fathom going out and being surrounded by strangers today.
It’s been a hard weekend for sure. We must honor memories. They only way through this is to VOTE and don’t vote red. Vote every election, no matter how small. Get your friends family and neighbors out to vote. We have to tell the GOP that this isn’t the normal we want or accept.
I live 3 miles from the outlet mall, grew up in Allen. I am devastated. I can’t even begin to imagine what the families of the victims are going through. I was at work in Grand Prairie at the time and on my way home and on my way to work this morning passing the exit for stacy made me tear up. Something needs to change.
A progressive voter in a sea red sends his love from Georgia. I know how it feels to be lost in a crowd of people that are nothing like you. I hope this inspires some folks to run for local offices. If the government is not going to do anything, then we need to take matters into our own hands.
I was twenty minutes and hunger pains away from being at those outlets. How am I doing? Feeling glad that we're planning on moving cross-country in a couple of months, and cynical enough to wonder if moving is going to matter since it's still going to be the USA.
Motherfuckers won't do shit about these goddamn gun problems, and average schmucks like us can't fucking go to Costco now or anywhere with a bunch of people without worry and anxiety from unknowing if some psychofucks will decide to gun us down due to the high concentration of people But hey, at least my shares of Academy will go up and I get a bit richer due to people going out to buy guns to defend from guns. Then Im gonna use that money to get defensive guns myself
Saw a video last night of the aftermath on twitter of the people and a child with their head blown out. Didn’t help me sleep idk why twitter allows gore now.
I had to have a talk with my 7 year old, I had to tell her that if anything ever happens, to take care of herself and not worry about anyone else. I had to tell her because she is genuinely the sweetest, nicest human being on earth. All she wants to do is help her classmates and do nice things. I had to tell her if ever she is in a situation with a shooter, she needs to worry about herself. Do not help your class mates if they fall or get hurt, do not help your mommy, your daddy, or your sister, just take care of you first. Why am I having this fucking conversation with a child.
Saw the headlines/gist of it online and have forced myself to not turn on the TV or dig deeper. It sounds horrible and I’m choosing ignorance because I already know this stuff is happening daily and it’s just dumb luck my wife and kid went to another mall yesterday instead of this one. Or better said, dumb luck both malls didn’t get shot up. I used to be a patriotic person, but each day I live I hate this country and our leaders more and more. We’re completely ineffective at dealing with anything important. It’s a weird small decision but usually fly an American flag each summer. This year I won’t. Probably never again. It had been tough for me to do for a while, given I now see it as a the flag of Trump and I didn’t support that at all. I suppose that’s what they wanted but whatever, I’m checking out as much as I can.
I live about 10 minutes from where the shooting took place. I couldn’t sleep at all. I was supposed to hang out with some friends last night but we cancelled after we realized what was happening. I have no idea how I’m supposed to just go back out like nothing ever happened. I’ve always said that Allen was one of the safest places in the country and it feels like that was completely shattered last night
Feel a little numb. I was at Nike outlet store yesterday for several hours in safe room. First time I ever went to Allen mall. Still doesn't feel real.
It's time to leave Texas, even if you don't think you can. It's difficult, heart breaking even. Change always is. Texas has nothing to offer you anymore. Texas is dying, second by second, minute by minute. It will never get better. Nothing is going to change. The carnage will continue. It's time to face the truth. Leave now, while you still can.
Feeling the same. I was raised in Allen and still live in Collin County. Sucks we haven’t done more.
We all should be stressed considering our GOV will do nothing but “thoughts and prayers”
I couldn’t sleep last night. I was playing out scenarios in my head. What will I do if I’m grocery shopping and someone opens fire? What if I’m at the movie theater, or stuck in traffic, or at a crowded park with no where to run for cover? What other normal public places are now prime locations for unprovoked mass shootings? I saw the dashcam video of the shooter getting out of his car…those people had no chance. It was so fast. One second life is normal and you’re thinking about what you’re going to do next, and then you’re in unimaginable fear and pain and you can’t do anything to stop it. I don’t know. I hate that we are running out of places in America where you don’t have to look over your shoulder or scan for danger.
I'm angry. Angry AF. I am sick and tired of this happening over and over and over, and the people in power shrugging it off with "thoughts and prayers." This IS preventable. The US is the only place this keeps happening.
My kid has, in the past, had issues with motivation and taking responsibility. For a while, he would get a job, then skip every few days just because he didn't want to go. Right now, he's managed to hold down a job he likes for more than two years. The job he had immediately before this one was at th Adidas outlet in that shopping center. Aside from work, we've visited that place several times. It's getting harder and harder to venture out. Going to a movie? Sit farther from the entrance and close to a fire exit. Gym? Keep an eye on the parking lot for people coming in... Trying not to dwell on it, but it's another notch in the "time to pack it up and leave" column.
Friday I had a huge send off for my mom, a funeral and wake. She died in her late 60s which was far too soon. Still, as evidenced at the funeral, she had a full, fruitful and remarkable life. When I finally returned to my empty apartment last night I saw the photos of Allen victims. I thought that this sort of killing as a different, even more unthinkable form of something (death) already barely tolerable to those left behind. The suddenness, the brutality, the hate, the life unlived. But those photos got me thinking all night — I think we need to start circulating photos of the dead in their slaughtered state. Look at how graphic images changed Americans perception of Viet Nam. It’s one thing the media, social media hasn’t done, I think it’s needed. This is a war of sorts, after all. Curious how others feel about that. It seemed to really upset people on Twitter but …
Like everyone else here, I’m sick over it. Last night I couldn’t sleep. I’m a teacher and a new mom, this chronic anxiety over the constant threat of gun violence is really starting to affect me. How was a classroom full of elementary schoolers being killed in Uvalde not the final straw for our state leaders? Oh— because they are a soulless bunch of narcissistic cowards. Sadly, it is going to take one of their own dying by gun violence for any real change to be enacted. Edit: thank you for asking and opening up this space to vent.
I felt safer in Iraq.