John,
You don’t have to be the target to be the victim.
Andrea Nicole Camps, Melissa Gonzalez, De’Michael Dukes, Lindsay Key-Parker, and King Carter. They remind us that stray gunfire can reach anyone, anywhere. But their stories are so much more than a bullet. You can read their stories in the 30 under 30 magazine and learn more about the lives that were stolen in the blink of an eye.
Each of these kids were bright stars of their communities, they lived joyfully everyday and created happiness rather than wait for it. With great plans for themselves and their families, with bright paths in their eyes.
Melissa and Andrea’s boyfriends, King’s parents, and Lindsay and De’Micheal’s baby daughter were all waiting for them back home. Gunfire that was not meant for them ended their lives, while doing everyday activities. They were not the aim of the gunshot, yet it stopped their futures.
Gun violence is the leading cause of death for children in the US. It has taken the future of 4,300 kids annually, no matter if they were the target or not. Leaving families, friends, and communities to mourn not only their lives but what could have been. As of September 25, 2024, stray bullets have caused 34 deaths and 62 injuries in the United States.
Andrea, Melissa, De’Michael, Lindsay, and King did not just have dreams, they had goals. They had set up a plan for their future that was supposed to be bright and beautiful. Every step they took was building towards that, full of great possibilities. They were living everyday wonders that should have led to so many tomorrows.
Thank you,
March For Our Lives HQ
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