Another chapter was added to the U.S. book of violence when Jared Lee Loughner shot and killed six people and wounded 13, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, in Tucson, Ariz., on Jan. 8. There seems to be an uprising of anti-government sickos who let their anger out by killing innocent citizens.

The list is growing at an alarming rate. More security is needed at political gatherings inside and out. There could be an American al-Qaida lurking on the horizon, staged by our own citizens, if no action is taken and alertness is ignored. It feels like the Wild West days.

Loughner had spread suspicious comments all around prior to the killings. “Why don’t we strap bombs to babies” was just one statement he once made in class. Many other incidents were pointing to schizophrenic-type problems. His parents should have noticed this and got him psychiatric help. What drove Loughner over the edge?

It’s too easy to buy a gun these days. A mental and prior-felony check on gun-buyers should be done to avoid tragedy. God bless Giffords. Let’s pray for her speedy recovery. We need to look over our shoulders. Who knows, the boogieman may be nearby.

Margit Suesser
Anniston