ATF Reports Surge in Untraceable Ghost Guns Nationwide

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reports a shocking increase of 1,000% in the recovery of ghost guns, untraceable firearms typically assembled from kits purchased online. Between 2016 and 2021, nearly 45,240 suspected “Privately Made Firearms” (PMFs) were recovered, indicating a growing concern over accountability in firearm sales and the ease with which these weapons can enter the hands of individuals not eligible to own firearms.

Tragically, the proliferation of ghost guns has real-world implications, as highlighted by the case of 15-year-old Kennedi Belton, whose life was cut short by a mishap involving such a weapon. Despite the rising frequency of incidents involving ghost guns, many cities across the U.S. do not maintain consistent data, complicating efforts for law enforcement to address the issue. This lack of uniform tracking raises questions about effective policy changes to combat this growing threat.

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