Former US President Donald Trump was the target of an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, saw a 20-year-old gunman open fire from a nearby rooftop. While Trump sustained an injury to his right ear, he was otherwise unharmed. Tragically, one rally attendee was killed, and at least two others were critically injured before the gunman was killed by law enforcement.
In the aftermath, two prominent figures from Team USA, head coach Steve Kerr and star player Stephen Curry, have called for urgent gun reform. Speaking from Abu Dhabi, where the U.S. men’s Olympic basketball team is preparing for upcoming exhibition games, Kerr expressed his deep concern over the incident.
Per USA Today:
“It’s such a demoralizing day for our country, and it’s yet another example of not only our political division but also our gun culture,” Kerr stated.
He emphasized the need for stricter gun control measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Steph Curry echoed Kerr’s sentiments, describing the situation as “a very sad time in general.” He highlighted the importance of addressing gun violence and fostering positivity and hope within the country.
“Obviously, gun control first and foremost, because the fact that that’s even possible for somebody to have an attack like that. But just more so you want to see positivity and hope,” Curry said.
Both Kerr and Curry have been vocal advocates for gun reform in the past, and this incident has only strengthened their resolve. Their calls for action come at a time when the nation is grappling with deep political divisions and ongoing debates about gun control.
As Team USA continues its preparations for the Olympics, Kerr and Curry’s statements serve as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for change in the country’s approach to gun violence.