In wake of deadly Isla Vista shootings, L.A. hosts annual gun buyback
Los Angeles officials will host a gun buyback program on Saturday, one week after an Isla Vista man killed six people and wounded 13 near the campus of UC Santa Barbara.
“The tragedy in Santa Barbara reminded us of the horrors of gun violence,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti of the May 23 attacks by Elliot Rodger near UCSB.
He said the buyback “gives Angelenos the opportunity to help make our city safer by taking these guns off the street so they don’t fall into the hands of criminals or children.”
People will be able to anonymously return firearms in exchange for up to $200 in Ralphs grocery gift cards at four locations in the L.A. area.
The Los Angeles Police Department Gun Unit will be on site to determine the types of firearms surrendered. An assault weapon can get up to $200, and a handgun, rifle or shotgun can get up to $100.
Authorities will collect weapons between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, 3939 S. Figueroa St.; the Park & Ride Parking Lot, 1300 W. Pacific Coast Highway in Wilmington; 2379 W. Washington Blvd.; and at the Van Nuys Masonic Temple, 14750 Sherman Way.
According to the city, nearly 12,000 guns have been turned in since the buyback program began in 2009.
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