James Holmes was a "law-abiding citizen" when he amassed his arsenal

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72. I'm an engineer with an extensive science background.

I understand the second hand smoke facts and the truth in what you are saying about it.

Weapons and everything used as a weapon will have their lawful and valid applications hijacked by criminals and mental cases. Guns do not have a monopoly on misuse and neither are they the most efficient means to kill large numbers of innocent people. All that aside, there should be an investigation and analysis of these events so that anything learned may be used to the best advantage of society.

I am not insensitive to death, injury and loss. Driving is a privilege under the law and, as such, is subject to limits and legal requirements such as insurance and licenses. Firearm ownership is a right and can't in general be subjected those types restrictions.

Full-auto firearms are heavily regulated. ATF permission to own one usually takes many months to be approved. Semi-auto firearms have existed for over a hundred years. At least tens of millions are in private hands in this country. My first firearm was inherited by me from my father. Is was a semi-auto .22 cal rifle manufactured in the '50s before there were even laws requiring serial numbers. There is no plausible way to ban anything involved in last week's horrible shootings that will make any difference in preventing their repetition.

IMHO, our best hopes are to pay attention to our friends, associates and family members and play a more active role in getting help for those who show signs of needing it. There are mechanisms in place to deny sales of firearms to those with mental issues. Perhaps now with healthcare reform, more people can get a wider range of help and support.