Fearing more unrest, on November 17 Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon formally declared a state of emergency, calling in the National Guard and reducing the scope of power for the Ferguson Police Department, which has faced much criticism for their perceived mishandling of the case.
With tensions at an all-time high in Ferguson, some gun dealers in the area are reporting a sharp increase in first time gun buyers, as some residents are arming themselves ahead of the Grand Jury decision that will decide whether officer Darren Wilson will face charges in regards to the fatal slaying of teen Mike Brown.
According to Metro Shooting Supplies owner Steven King, “First-time gun owners account for about 60% of recent customers. We’re selling everything that’s not nailed down.” He adds, “Police aren’t going to be able to protect every single individual. If you don’t prepare yourself and get ready for the worst, you have no one to blame but yourself.”