Senseless shooting of Chattanooga teen

It is disturbing when any human life is lost senselessly and violently. But it is especially so when the person killed is young.

Chattanooga police have reported that 19-year-old Aundre Bush was fatally shot in the head near the Harriet Tubman public housing development in East Chattanooga.

Police said a fight occurred in the 1900 block of Southern Street at about 6 p.m. Monday. It involved two groups made up mostly of women, but the young man was drawn into the melee. Then, witnesses said, another man began shooting in the crowd, with the deadly result.

Scores of people reportedly had gathered when police arrived. The victim was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A suspect has been arrested.

We sorely wish we could mourn this tragedy as an isolated incident. Unfortunately, slayings are not rare in our city. The latest death was reported to have been the 20th homicide in Chattanooga so far this year.

What a needless loss of life!

The victims include, however, not only those killed but their grieving family members and friends. Even strangers who witness such violence can suffer negative effects for years.

It is an indictment of our society's family breakdown and disrespect for the rule of law that in too many areas of our city and of cities across the country, young people and others face a significant threat of serious violence.

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