A Democratic U.S. Senate candidate from Missouri, Lucas Kunce, will not face charges after a reporter was injured during a campaign event at a shooting range. The incident occurred on a private shooting range near Kansas City, where the reporter was injured by flyaway metal. The Clinton County Sheriff determined that there was no ill intent by Kunce or other shooters at the event. The reporter, who was treated for a minor injury, declined to press charges, calling it a “freak” accident. The shooting event was designed to appeal to gun-owners, Republicans, and moderates in a state where the GOP holds political dominance.
The event, which included a former Republican U.S. congressman supporting Kunce’s bid to unseat Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, was criticized by Hawley as being unsafe. Hawley noted that Kunce was firing an AR-15-style rifle too close to steel targets. The distance between the firing range and targets was measured at about 10 yards, with the reporter stating he was also about 10 yards back from the shooters. Hawley took the opportunity to joke with journalists at his farm rally, promising not to shoot them regardless of tough questions asked, and calling on Kunce to pledge to never shoot another reporter again.
Kunce responded to the incident by emphasizing the importance of safety in handling weapons. He stated that the shooting range was set up and run by an NRA Training Counselor, but acknowledged the need for preparedness when handling weapons. Kunce expressed relief that the reporter was okay and able to continue reporting after the incident. The campaign’s focus on safety highlights the importance of responsible gun handling, especially in a state where firearms are a significant political issue.
Overall, the incident at the shooting range has raised concerns about safety protocols during campaign events involving firearms. The fact that the reporter was injured by flyaway metal underscores the potential risks involved in such activities. While Kunce and other shooters did not intend harm, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for strict safety measures when handling firearms. The incident has sparked debate and criticism from opponents like Hawley, who has called for greater caution in future events involving firearms.
Despite the controversy surrounding the shooting range incident, Kunce’s campaign continues to focus on issues important to Missouri residents. Kunce’s bid to unseat Hawley in the U.S. Senate race remains a central part of his campaign platform. The incident at the shooting range has highlighted the need for greater awareness of gun safety and responsible handling of firearms, especially in the midst of a highly charged political atmosphere. As the campaign progresses, both candidates will need to address the incident and its implications for their respective platforms.
