Over the last couple weeks multiple pro-gun blogs have pointed out that despite the violence that occurred during the Charlottesville protests, no one on either side who was carrying a gun fired any shots. Proof that bearing arms during a protest is a civil right in support of free speech and the right to keep and bear arms. New video from the ACLU, however, seems to show a man pull a firearm and fire it towards counter-protesters.
WATCH: Man fired at another person in Charlottesville on Aug. 12. We handed 📹 to LE agencies. The man has been arrested & charged w a crime. pic.twitter.com/0vrXq4zNC0
— ACLU of Virginia (@ACLUVA) August 26, 2017
In the video a man is seen walking away from counter-protesters before drawing his firearm, appearing to rack a round into the chamber, and firing a single shot in the general direction of the counter-protesters. To the right of the frame a flame is seen, which looks like an improvised aerosol flame thrower being used by counter-protesters.
According to the NY Times the man in question was taken into custody Saturday morning. No doubt anti-gun folks such as Shannon Watts will use this as fodder to bolster their argument that gun owners are too violent and unhinged to be allowed to carry firearms during protests.
I’m waiting to hear the whole story before passing judgement. Did the man feel threatened? Did the flame directed his way prompt him to draw his gun and fire? And why were police not present to (A) separate protesters on the two sides and (B) arrest him?
Given the number of people present, it’s remarkable that no one was hit. Did the man pictured fire a live round? There are lots of questions here and few answers so far. Watch this space.