The US breaks it own record for deadliest mass shooting in modern history during one gunman’s attack during the Route 91 Harvest Festival. Stephen Paddock shot down 53 country music fans and injured nearly 500 others before shooting himself. Paddock had begun using his 32nd floor luxury suite on Mandalay Bay Inn and Casino as a “sniper’s nest,” according to CNN, revealing that he had 23 weapons in his hotel room.  

The use of bumps played a huge factor in the extreme number of fatalities. These devices allow rifles to be used as rapid-fire weapons. Even the NRA and Washington Republicans waver in their gun control stances. “The N.R.A. believes that devices designed to allow semiautomatic rifles to function like fully-automatic rifles should be subject to additional regulations,” said the National Rifle Association in a statement released on Thursday.

Investigators are still looking into Paddock’s possible motive for the attack, which still remains unclear. Some attest it to Paddock having several undiagnosed mental illnesses. Family members claim that he was a man without any particular political or religious bias and enjoyed gambling on the Las Vegas strip. Paddock’s girlfriend, Marilou Danley, claims to have been unaware of Paddock’s plans. She stated that she had been sent to the Philippines and was wired money from Paddock to buy a house. 

Some are comparing this shooting to other recent ones such as Pulse. Pulse survivor, Brandon Wolf, stated that he “was just overcome with feelings of grief and pain again. It just – it hurts a lot.” He believes that Pulse survivors can be a support system for those in Las Vegas and he’ll lend an ear out to those who need it.

Las Vegas continues to recover in the aftermath of the event. Hospitals near the metropolitan area are looking for blood donors for the numerous victims. Those still attempting to find loved ones in the area can call (866) 535-5654. Reunification centers and private spaces have opened up for those needing it. Those not in the area can donate money to victims through GoFundMe.