Ex-Marine Kills 13 in California Bar

Ex-Marine Kills 13 in California Bar

Samantha Crowson, Feature and Cougar Tales Editor

On the night of Wednesday November 7th, another tragedy struck in Thousand Oaks, California.   A gunman entered the  Borderline Bar & Grill, a live country music bar, during college night, throwing stink bombs and wreaking havoc on what was supposed to be a fun evening. 14 people died including the gunman (self inflicted), and a Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Ron Helus, who was one of the first at the scene.

The events shocked many; even the mayor  Andy Fox said it was “considered one of the safest cities in the country.” The gunman was identified as 28-year-old former Marine Ian David Long who reportedly had PTSD.  According to CNN, he has had other run ins with the law. “In April, officers responded to a disturbance at Long’s home, and he was irate and acting irrationally.” In interviews had with his friends they called him “a stable man,” also stating, “The Ian I knew would not do this.” CBS news reported that, “Long’s high school track coach said he physically assaulted her his senior year, but she never filed charges.” On November 13th a vigil was held with hundreds of people honoring those lost.