In a revealing investigation, journalist Sarah Thompson from the City Gazette decided to shed light on the process of acquiring a semi-automatic firearm in America. Her experience was startlingly swift: she managed to purchase an AR-15 in just seven minutes. This particular weapon has been implicated in some of the most tragic mass shootings in the country, including the recent Orlando tragedy that claimed 49 lives and the horrific events in Newtown and Aurora.
Thompson’s Experience
Thompson recounted her experience, stating, “It took me only seven minutes from the time I presented my ID to the moment I passed my background check.” She contrasted this with the lengthy process of commemorating the victims—over 100 individuals affected by gun violence—through public vigils.
As she drove to the gun store, Thompson grappled with the prospect of justifying her purchase, especially given the recent violence associated with the AR-15. “Should I say I’m a concerned woman looking for protection? Or perhaps a gun enthusiast?” she pondered. Ultimately, she found that no explanation was necessary; the AR-15 was prominently displayed as “Gun of the Week.”
The Purchase Process
Despite the weighty implications of her purchase, the process was remarkably straightforward. The salesperson merely asked if she was a U.S. citizen and requested her identification. The paperwork she completed was minimal—“I’ve had to fill out more forms at a doctor’s office for a check-up than I did on that day,” Thompson remarked. After completing a brief form, undergoing an instant background check, and paying $759.99, she left the store with the firearm. The staff even congratulated her on her proactive decision to buy the “most popular rifle in the country” before potential restrictions might arise.
“What a unique moment in America,” she reflected. No concealed carry permit was required, nor was there any mandatory training—though she was given a voucher for a local gun range. At that point, she felt a wave of discomfort wash over her, especially as families were still receiving news of their loved ones’ deaths from the recent shooting.
After the Purchase
After leaving the store, Thompson found herself at a loss for what to do with the gun she had just acquired. Ultimately, she decided to turn it in to the police, a process that took longer than the purchase itself.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, Sarah Thompson’s brief yet poignant journey to buy an AR-15 highlights the ease with which firearms can be obtained in the U.S., prompting critical conversations about gun control and public safety.