Luby's shooting

Bell Killeen

Luby's shooting

The Luby's shooting was a mass shooting that took place on October 16, 1991, at a Luby's cafeteria in Killeen, Texas. The incident resulted in the deaths of 23 people, including the perpetrator, and left 27 others injured. It remains one of the deadliest mass shootings in United States history.

Incident[edit | edit source]

On the morning of October 16, 1991, George Hennard drove his pickup truck through the front window of the Luby's cafeteria. Armed with two semi-automatic pistols, he began shooting patrons and staff indiscriminately. The attack lasted approximately 10 minutes before Hennard took his own life after being cornered by police.

Perpetrator[edit | edit source]

George Hennard was a 35-year-old unemployed merchant seaman. He had a history of mental health issues and expressed strong anti-women sentiments. Prior to the shooting, Hennard had sent a letter to two sisters he had known, expressing his hatred for women and minorities.

Victims[edit | edit source]

The shooting resulted in the deaths of 23 individuals, ranging in age from 30 to 71. Among the victims were both men and women, including several elderly patrons. An additional 27 people were injured, some critically.

Aftermath[edit | edit source]

The Luby's shooting had a significant impact on gun control legislation in the United States. It was a catalyst for the passage of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act in 1993, which mandated federal background checks on firearm purchasers in the United States. Additionally, the incident influenced the Texas State Legislature to pass a law allowing the carrying of concealed weapons.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The Luby's shooting is often cited in discussions about gun control and mass shootings in the United States. It has been the subject of numerous studies and reports aimed at understanding the causes and prevention of such incidents. The event also led to increased security measures in public places and heightened awareness of mental health issues.