Deadliest Mass Shooting in Modern American History

Early October 1st 2017, a gunman, identified as Stephen Paddock, opened fire at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada. This violent terrorist act killed 59 and has left 527 people wounded, making this the deadliest mass shooting in the last century. Before authorities could apprehend Paddock, he committed suicide in a Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino room, where he was staying. Police discovered twenty three guns in the room where he committed the crime from the 32nd floor. It became evident that Paddock broke windows in order to shoot at the audience. Witnesses describe the scene as pure horror, as bullets shot out of the sky for approximately ten to fifteen minutes. Later, police discovered another nineteen firearms in Paddock’s home.

Strangely, police had no prior knowledge of Paddock before the attack. A man with not even a parking ticket, he left his surviving relatives, including brother Eric Paddock, stunned by his actions. Stephan Paddock was a retired accountant who enjoyed going on cruises and playing poker. As of now, there is no evidence that Paddock is in any way involved with any terrorist organization. His partner, Marilou Danley, is no longer a person of interest according to Las Vegas Metropolitan Police. Police speculate that he was acting as a lone wolf. Unfortunately, officials fear that the death toll will rise. The Sheriff has asked that people donate blood. Not long after, hundreds of Nevadans waited in line to help. Vigils have been held across Nevada in response to this horrific attack.