Mayor Victoria Woodards on the Shooting of Tacoma Police Department Detective

Mayor Victoria Woodards released a statement addressing the injury of a Tacoma Police Detective during an incident involving two adolescent suspects, expressing relief that the detective's injuries were not life-threatening. She described gun violence as a "terrible disease" that has impacted communities nationwide, particularly affecting innocent lives and youth. The mayor emphasized that the community must not accept gun violence as a norm and called for a united effort from all sectors, including law enforcement, government, schools, and parents. She pointed to existing programs like the Summer Teen Late Nights initiative, which offer safe recreational spaces for youth. Woodards acknowledged the crucial role of non-profit organizations in running these programs and creating meaningful partnerships to combat gun violence.

The statement serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against gun violence and the necessity for community engagement to foster safer environments for children. Mayor Woodards concluded with a passionate plea for collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left with access to guns. Her remarks spotlight the urgent need for action to protect the youth of Tacoma.