LAS VEGAS (KSNV MyNews3.com) -- As forecast, thousands of potential gun buyers have shown up at the Cashman Center for the first of two days of the Crossroads of the West Gun Show.
Just two weeks after the Sandy Hook (Conn.) Elementary School shootings that claimed 20 young schoolchildren and 6 teachers/administrators, up to 12,000 people were expected to attend the show north of downtown Las Vegas. Traffic was backed up for blocks before the show's 9 a.m. opening and lines were forming at the entrances.
The shootings sparked a national debate about gun violence in schools and President Barack Obama has appointed Vice President Joe Biden to head a panel to make recommendations about possible gun control changes. The panel is to report to the president before the end of January.
Bob Templeton, promoter of the gun show, said he knows that there is a high demand for guns now as people fear restrictions on their Second Amendment right to bear arms.
Many similar gun shows have seen demand for guns double or triple since the shootings in Connecticut. Some weapons manufacturers opted not to show their guns at the Las Vegas event because they have run out of guns and ammunition.
Templeton says he'd like to have teachers who receive the proper training to carry guns in school or to have volunteers, possibly retired law enforcement officer, protect each of the nation's schools. He thinks some of the focus of the debate should also include mental health professionals.
