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Tucson Voices: Madeline Ruth

Sarah Webb |
January 27, 2011 | 12:45 p.m. PST

Contributor

Cashier Madeline Ruth was on her way to start her shift at the Tucson Safeway on Oracle Road when she received a disturbing text message from her sister, Samantha. 

“She said that there was a shooting outside. I thought she was joking,” she said.
   
What Madeline did not know was a gunmen had opened fire at the “Congress on Your Corner” event right outside the Safeway, killing six people and wounding 13 others, including Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords just moments before. 

“I called in to Safeway and talked to my friend working in the Floral Department,” she said.  “I went straight home and stayed glued to the television to wait for more information.”

The shootings brought attention to Arizona’s lenient gun laws, and how easy it is for people of varying mental states to get firearms. Arizona, along with Alaska and Vermont, do not require permits for citizens to carry concealed weapons.

“I am scared of guns,” Madeline said, “I wish people didn’t feel the need to carry a gun around with them at all times.  I guess that is just how it is.” 

Arizona state law also permits people 21 years of age or older to forego background checks when purchasing a firearm: a law that frightens Madeline.

“First of all, I think the age at which you can buy a gun is just way too young,” she said. “I mean, you can’t rent a car until age 25, but you can buy a gun when you are 21. I just don’t think that is a good idea at all.”
 
With reports of the shooters’ past issues with the law, Madeline wants to see a change in the way Arizona allows nearly everyone to purchase a gun.
 
“If anyone ever got in trouble for anything serious in high school or college, I think it needs to go onto their record,” she said. “Places that sell guns need to give background checks so that what they have done will show up if they try to purchase a gun.”
 
Madeline sees this also as a chance to help these people as well. 

“If they have background checks, they can get the mental help they need from professionals.”

The strength of the surrounding Tucson community has shown Madeline how people can come together in the aftermath of the shooting. 

“Customers are coming into Safeway and buying flowers. They are thanking us for staying open, and they are even holding a nightly vigil right outside the doors. It’s really great to see how much the community cares,” she said.
 
Safeway is also doing its part to help. 

“Safeway is donating a fund to help the families of Tucson. The store also fed the people who helped during the crisis, including the hospital crew,” she said. “So far we have raised $2,100, and we are working to help put the community back together.”



 

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