SB 65, was approved by the Virginia State Senate by a vote of 29-6. The bill makes celebratory gunfire that results in death a felony punishable by a prison sentence of up to ten years. The bill was created in response to the tragic death of 7 year old Brendon Mackey last fourth of July. Police believe the child was killed when someone fired shots into the air to celebrate the Fourth of July.
The bill would allow for individuals who fire into the air and only injure, but don’t kill, the victim to be punished by 5 years in prison.
The senate also approved bills that would limit the rights of individuals convicted of domestic violence, stalking, sexual battery and/or domestic violence to lose their rights to possess a firearm for 5 years.
The bills will now receive additional scrutiny and debate in the full House.
