Gun dealer whose company sold weapon to Cho to speak at Virginia Tech
Eric Thompson, the owner of TGSCOM Inc., says he believes he has, “A special responsibility to do all he can to try to prevent further loss of life.”
Eric Thompson, the owner of TGSCOM Inc., says he believes he has, “A special responsibility to do all he can to try to prevent further loss of life.”
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WSLS News Staff
Published: April 23, 2008
The man whose company sold a gun to Seung Hui Cho and gun equipment to the Northern Illinois University shooter will speak Thursday night at Virginia Tech.
Eric Thompson, the owner of TGSCOM Inc., says he believes he has, “A special responsibility to do all he can to try to prevent further loss of life.”
In response to Thompson’s visit, University Spokesman, Larry Hincker released this statement:
“Free speech is a hallmark of university life. Still, I find it terribly offensive to learn that the gun-seller of the weapons used in the Virginia Tech campus murders would set foot on this campus. Additionally, the organizers appear to be incredibly insensitive to the families of the victims who lost loved ones and to the injured students still recovering from this horrendous tragedy.”
The campus group, Students for Concealed Carry on Campus at Virginia Tech is sponsoring Thompson’s speech. The group says seating is limited. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m., in Whittemore 300.
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Reader Reactions
Posted by ( Mike3232 ) on April 24, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Why would University Spokesman, Larry Hincker interject his personal feelings in this matter. “Free speech is a hallmark of University life.” That’s it...that’s all he needed to say as a spokesperson for Virginia Tech. His personal statement has no consequence. Gun ownership is a hallmark of American life as well. I’m sure the university has communist speakers, pro-abortion speakers, anti-war speakers. Where’s Hincker’s statment on those events? Where’s your coverage of those events?
Why do we always have to hear personal opinions from university spokespersons, news reporters, etc...?
Posted by ( Ken S ) on April 23, 2008 at 11:59 pm
CORRECTIONS: Cho purchased ONE firearm from TGSCOM, which was transferred to a local gun store for the required background check. Steve K. from NIU purchased accessories from TGSCOM, not a gun.
Further, it is interesting to note that Mr. Hincker decides to speak out now, but had no comments when an anti-gun group wanted to protest ON the anniversary. He is also not the spokesperson for the “families of victims” and is clearly abusing his position with the University. “What did the University have to say about this, Mr. Hinkcer?” That’s the question he is supposed to answer.