Lawsuit Against AR-15 Makes Surprising Progress

A lawsuit brought against the makers of the assault rifle used to kill 26 people in the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School has progressed further than many expected, with a Connecticut judge setting a trial date and ordering defendants to turn over documents. Whatever the outcome, the New York Times reports, the lawsuit represents a “muscular campaign against the powerful gun industry.” The AR-15 assault rifle was used at Sandy Hook, as well as in the mass shootings in Aurora, Colo., San Bernadino, Calif., and most recently in Orlando, Fla., where it led to the largest mass shooting in U.S. history. The suit targets gun manufacturer Remington, as well as wholesalers and retailers, and looks to overcome broad immunity granted to gun makers and sellers under a 2005 federal law that shields them from liability when a gun is used in a crime. The 10 Sandy Hook plaintiffs argue the AR-15 is a weapon of war, and should never have been sold to civilians. Judge Barbara N. Bellis of State Superior Court has until October to decide whether the case will go to trial.