Hi Trish, you've made great points. I can't imagine the number of Americans who live with the same fear. Fear of playing with a toy gun, fear of J-walking, fear of selling cigarettes, fear of just hanging outside your house with friends, all as potential precursors to a shooting.

And phenomenal question. How was it that such a man was allowed not only a weapon but a badge? I believe the fear is endemic and innate in the American culture, hence the "need" and want for guns in every home.