The Gun that Can Defend Can also Destroy

I  continue my assault on guns. Today, we shall consider the case of a Layton, Utah, man who killed his wife and her parents, who were visiting from Arizona.

Shot 'em. Killed 'em. Now only the burying remains.

He turned most of his guns over to a friend shortly before the killing. Surrendered them. Knew he was thinking about killing his wife and her parents and wanted to get the temptation out of his sight. But, he forgot one gun, forgot to surrender it to his friend.

It was that gun, which belonged to one of the victims, which he used to slaughter the trio, as well as a family pet dog.

Of note, the man himself knew the presence of guns increased the chance he would kill.

And, of note, the gun he did end up using belonged to someone else. 

Both things point to the possibility that the proliferation of guns in society leads to a greater chance they will be used. You don't simply pass them out, saying, "Here, everybody have one," and expect there won't be consequences. The family member who owned the gun that ended up being used perhaps bought it for her or his own protection. 

But the gun that can defend can also destroy. That which can protect us can also be turned against us.