GOP Lawmaker: Madison Mall Shooting Shows Why Gun Bans Are A Bad Idea

A Republican state representative is making the case that a weekend shooting at a Madison mall is a strong argument against banning guns from malls and college campuses.

The shooting erupted Saturday at the East Towne mall during a dispute between several teens. One 19-year-old involved in the argument was injured.

Concealed weapons were banned at the mall. Rep. Bob Gannon of Slinger said the shooting could have been dealt with more efficiently if guns had been allowed.

“If 1 in 20 at that mall had the ability to drop the creep, it should have (brought) it to a close in the hurry,” said Gannon. “I refer to that as self-defense. If it happens to terminate the bad guy, too bad so sad.”

Gannon added that gun bans create a victim-rich environment for criminals.

“When the sign gets put up that says that law-abiding citizens cannot protect themselves — i.e., a gun ban — the criminal knows that they have plenty of people to shoot at, because the honest law-abiding citizen will follow that rule and the criminal won’t,” he said.

Democratic state Rep. Chris Taylor of Madison said Gannon’s comments were an irresponsible call for vigilante action.

“He seems to be wanting to encourage this wild wild west mentality that everyone should just pull out their guns and start shooting,” she said.

Taylor said there’s no evidence to support the idea that more guns in public places increases safety.