On the Anniversary of the 2022 Walmart VA Shooting, Guns Down America Calls for Corporate Action to Combat Rising Gun Violence in Retail Spaces

November 21, 2024

Guns Down America Renews Demand for Businesses to Act

WASHINGTON – Tomorrow marks the anniversary of the tragic shooting at a Walmart in Chesapeake, Virginia. Ahead of this anniversary, Guns Down America reflects on this painful reminder of the continued threat of gun violence within America’s retail spaces. The loss of six lives in that store, and the grief endured by their loved ones, serves as a stark reminder of the essential need for action to prevent such senseless violence.

“Today, we honor the lives lost in Chesapeake and the resilience of their families and friends left to grapple with their absence. But remembrance is not enough. Action must follow,” said Hudson Munoz, Executive Director of Guns Down America. “Walmart and other major retailers must address this ongoing crisis by supporting policies for safer communities, reevaluating partnerships and products related to firearms, and joining initiatives that prioritize gun safety and responsible practices.”

Since that tragedy in 2022, shootings in retail spaces have persisted, with our research showing that grocery stores and major retail chains remain vulnerable to gun violence. Walmart and similar retailers have a responsibility to their employees and customers to take stronger measures to secure their locations and foster safer environments for communities across the country. It is why Guns Down America launched the Walmart Must Act – demanding Walmart do their part in reducing the easy access to guns that puts profits over people. This push resulted in a victory where Walmart reduced their gun sales.

Guns Down America has continually called on retail corporations to adopt policies aimed at reducing gun-related incidents in their stores. Reduction in gun access is proven to save lives — a previous study of counties impacted by Walmart policies on gun sales shows reduced suicide rates where gun sales are limited. We urge companies like Walmart to join us in advancing common-sense protections that prioritize the safety of the public and take an active stand against the epidemic of gun violence.

As we mark this difficult anniversary, Guns Down America remains committed to advocating for safer retail spaces and pushing businesses to act in ending gun violence. We stand ready to work with retailers nationwide to prevent future tragedies.

Tomorrow, Guns Down America will launch a new campaign building off of their successful 2019 Walmart Must Act Campaign. Press interested in learning more should reach out to erika@newheightscommunications.com.