A mass shooting in downtown Tucson, Arizona, resulted in nine injuries, while the suspected shooter is now in critical condition. This incident has raised alarm among locals about the increasing late-night gun violence in the city, which is governed by Democrats.
The event took place around 2 a.m. near Empire Pizza, an area bustling with nightlife as patrons left bars and restaurants. Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from a confrontation between two familiar groups, with innocent bystanders caught in the gunfire. However, police have not disclosed how many firearms were used or what ignited the altercation.
“I feel like things are definitely less safe now compared to before,” said local resident Roxanne Brown.
Ten injured in Tucson shooting
Anaïs Camacho, who has seen similar violence in that part of downtown before, remarked that she often advises her family to leave the establishments early before chaos ensues.
“Somehow, I had this feeling that it was time to go home. The moment I stood up, a fight broke out,” Camacho recounted. “I tried to downplay it, but I knew danger was near when someone flashed a gun.” She added that when she shouted for everyone to flee, she realized she was speaking in Spanish. “I grabbed my cousin, and just as we turned the corner, the shooting started,” she said.
Camacho is familiar with the late-night fray that often spills into violence. “I always warn those close to me: if you’re out at 1:30 a.m., you should head home. It’s just a matter of time before a fight breaks out. This area has seen similar situations before—from rowdy behavior to actual shootings.”
Concerns about safety in downtown Tucson
According to a statement from Empire Pizza, some of the injured were outside on the patio when the shooting erupted. They commended local law enforcement for their rapid response but lamented the deteriorating safety of downtown.
“It pains us to witness the changes downtown,” the restaurant said. “Even our bus stops seem to have more security than some businesses here.”
Democratic Mayor Regina Romero, along with former Rep. Gabby Giffords, criticized the state’s lenient gun laws. Romero pointed out how the easy access to firearms and inadequate regulations jeopardize public safety. “We must enact measures like universal background checks to ensure safety in public spaces,” she stated.
Romero expressed gratitude toward law enforcement for quickly neutralizing the shooter before any more harm was done. “Tucson faced another reckless act of gun violence last night,” she noted, praising the officers for providing immediate medical assistance to the victims, who are expected to recover. “This incident affects us all—families, first responders, and the larger community,” she added, calling for collective action to combat gun violence.
Giffords, a prominent advocate for gun control, criticized Arizona’s lack of reasonable firearm regulations. “It’s appalling that mass shootings continue to happen in my home state,” she remarked. “People should be able to enjoy a night out—like grabbing a pizza—without fearing for their safety.”
In the wake of the shooting, Pima County Attorney Laura Conover confirmed that resources were sent to assist the shooting victims. “We’re hopeful for the recovery of all nine,” she said.
Conversely, Republican Senate President Warren Petersen emphasized the importance of gun rights for self-defense, stressing that such tragedies highlight the need for law-abiding citizens to be allowed to protect themselves. “We pray for those injured and for justice,” he stated.
