Dear Friend, My heart is heavy as we continue to mourn the five lives tragically taken by gun violence last week. We pay tribute to Nicole Connors, Susan Karnatz, Mary Marshall, Gabriel Torres, and James Thompson. I am praying for their families, loved ones, and our entire community.  I am extraordinarily grateful for the swift, coordinated response from our state and local law enforcement officers who risked their own lives to protect others. My heart goes out to the Raleigh Police Department after losing one of their own – Officer Gabriel Torres. How many communities and families must experience this kind of senseless bloodshed before we finally say enough is enough? Gun violence has plagued our schools, houses of worship, and other public spaces for far too long. I am devastated that Raleigh is next in the long line of American communities forever changed by a mass shooting. No American should be forced to endure this kind of unspeakable anguish and grief. As we continue to learn more details about this horrific act of violence, one thing is clear: we must do more to address the epidemic of gun violence taking precious lives and tearing apart community after community. As we continue to process the mass shooting last week, please make sure to reach out and check on your family and friends. If you or a loved one need to speak to someone, you can call or text (919) 231-4525 or (877) 235-4525 to reach the North Carolina HopeLine. You are not alone. We must continue to stand together during these difficult days. Please don't hesitate to reach out to my office. My team is here to assist you. You can send me an email through my website or call my Raleigh office at (919) 334-0840. For updates on my work on behalf of our community, follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @RepDeborahRoss