Biden Laments Gun Violence as Pandemic, Calls for Reform After 73 Mass Shootings

U.S. President Joe Biden has described gun violence in the U.S. as an epidemic and urged for reforms in gun laws. "Enough is enough. It has been 48 days since the beginning of the year, and there have already been at least 73 mass shootings in our country. Thoughts and prayers are not enough. Gun violence is an epidemic, and Congress must act immediately," Biden stated.

The latest shooting incident occurred the day before, where a suspect killed six people, including his ex-wife, in one of Mississippi's small towns. According to Biden, the U.S. needs "common-sense reforms on gun laws." Among other proposals, these reforms should include background checks for all gun sales and a ban on assault weapons.

"These are smart steps that Congress can take right now to save lives," Biden asserted. It should be noted that on February 17, three armed men fatally shot his ex-wife and five others in a small rural town in Mississippi, as reported by U.S. media. The local 52-year-old resident has been charged with first-degree murder and placed in a regional jail. The motive for his attack remains unknown.

Afterward, he shot two individuals, one in a vehicle and another on the road near his home. According to Sheriff Lance, the last two victims were likely construction workers. The sheriff reported that the suspect had a hunting rifle and two handguns in his possession.