Letters to the Editor
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First amendment first, then the second amendment...
If one honestly looks for a cause to the tragedy at VPI the lion's share would be apportioned to the media. Thirty years ago when I started in journalism we didn't report bomb scares or print suicide notes. By the time I left TV news 10 years ago it was common practice to do both, live if possible.
Mr. Seung-Hui sent a multi-media suicide note to NBC news and it is now being replayed constantly on every possible media worldwide. How many people will die over the next several years at the hands of those imitating his images and thoughts?
There are many ways to kill lots of people and guns don't even come close to the most effective methods for mass murder. The key to preventing this type of needless slaughter is to not make it so appealing to those looking to be "remembered" for their time on earth.
Guns are not going away but responsible media is already gone.