Readers React: Where were Adam Lanza’s mother and father?

To the editor: With regard to your article on Newtown, Conn., shooter Adam Lanza and the “years of failure to treat” him before the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the responsibility for that failure lies directly with his mother and her turning a “blind eye” to the degree of his illness. Unfortunately, as Lanza had not, according to the article, engaged in any activity where the state could forcefully intervene, there was very little the schools and medical facilities could do. (“New report on Newtown shooter: Parental denial, breakdowns, missed opportunities,” Nov. 21)

Sadly, Nancy Lanza paid for her mistake with her life.

I wonder if Lanza’s father was somewhat responsible. The article mentions an urgent email sent to him, but it appears that there was no mention of any activity on the father’s part to see that his son received treatment.

It brings up the question of the state versus parental rights. What can the state do if the parent refuses to continue treatment of the child? Be thrown in jail?

That would make for an interesting debate.

Jean Strauber, Encino

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To the editor: The Times’ article about the horrible Sandy Hook shooting was very informative. I can only conclude that there was one overriding element that could have changed everything.

Were it not for all the gun enthusiasm, training and availability in Lanza’s short and tragic life, all those little children would still be alive.

Kevin McGill, Chula Vista

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