Falls Township, Pennsylvania – Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., expressed concern on Saturday about the recent violent incidents in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, where a lone gunman killed three individuals before being apprehended. During an interview on “Fox News Live,” Fitzpatrick emphasized the urgent need for addressing mental health issues in the country to prevent further violence in communities.
According to Fitzpatrick, mental health problems are often stigmatized in the United States, leading to a lack of focus and resources on addressing such issues. He highlighted the interconnected nature of mental health crises, exacerbated by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, increased social media use, and substance abuse.
The recent incidents involved a 26-year-old individual, Andre Gordon, who allegedly shot and killed three people in Falls Township, Pennsylvania, before fleeing to New Jersey. Gordon was eventually taken into custody after a stand-off with law enforcement in Trenton, New Jersey.
Fitzpatrick commended the law enforcement agencies involved in tracking down Gordon, highlighting their swift response in ensuring the safety of communities. He also expressed gratitude for the efforts of first responders and federal law enforcement agencies for their role in resolving the situation.
Gordon is accused of murdering his stepmother and younger sister in Falls Township, Pennsylvania, before shooting and killing another individual in New Jersey. Four individuals inside the second home where the shooting occurred managed to survive the incident.
As investigations continue into the tragic events, Fitzpatrick called for prayers for the victims and emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues to prevent similar incidents in the future. The congressman urged a shift in societal attitudes towards mental health, emphasizing the need to treat mental health issues with the same urgency and resources as physical health concerns.
In light of the recent violence, Fitzpatrick’s remarks underscore the ongoing challenges in addressing mental health in the United States, urging for a more comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of violence and prioritize mental well-being in communities.