In Missouri, a state with broad gun rights, Orlando Harris’ family pleaded with police to intervene as his mental health deteriorated. Despite their efforts, 19-year-old Harris kept his guns and later used them in a tragic school shooting.

The comprehensive police report highlights numerous missed intervention opportunities, including warnings from psychiatrists, blocked firearm purchases and family alerts, prior to Harris’ attack on October 24, 2022 at Central High School for the Visual and Performing Arts.

This tragedy sheds light on the systemic challenges facing restricting guns to people deemed dangerous, especially in states that lack red flag laws, emphasizing the dire need for coordinated legislative and mental health solutions.

(With contributions from agencies).