I find it interesting how those opposed to gun control always try to change the focus to mental health issues whenever there is a mass shooting. Assault rifles were designed for one purpose, efficiently killing the maximum number of humans. There is no legitimate reason that individuals need or should have an assault rifle. More thorough background checks for purchasing guns would certainly help, however it would not have prevented last week’s killings as the shooter's mother conveniently provided him with the guns.

Military style automatic and semi-automatic weapons should be banned from sale to individuals and preferably be made illegal to have in one’s possession.

The writer lives in Calabash, N.C.