In the wake of gun violence across the country, which has fueled a massive debate over the importance of firearms and the Second Amendment, Guilford teens are facing the reality of gun crime right at home. Armando Luna, senior, was attending a party on the south side of Rockford, just a short bike ride from where he grew up, when he was shot through the thigh by a passing car.

“I only heard two pops and my first reaction was that someone broke a glass, then it started burning and I thought some dude had thrown a firework or something,” said Luna.

After realizing that he had been shot and people had scattered, he hobbled outside towards his friend’s car. Soon after hopping in, a police squad car pulled up and Luna chose to step out of the vehicle.

“I got out of the car, blood all over the seat and everything,” said Luna. “I had just got off with the phone with my dad, he thought I was joking at first. Then the cops sat me down and an ambulance was called which took me to the hospital. I was only there for about 45 minutes, getting cleaned up and having x-rays taken.”

Luna explained how this experience of violence has changed him for the better.

“It taught me some humility. Recently, I was watching T.V. and some guy got shot and just walked it off and I did that, but man, I guess I’m not a T.V. character, you know? When I see stuff on T.V. or in shows it definitely hits a little harder now.”

Even though Luna was shot, he expounded his opinion on the Second Amendment and his position on gun control.

“[Getting shot] has strengthened my belief in the Second Amendment, but something should be done about higher grade weaponry.”

Luna still has pride in Rockford, in spite of his recent brush with violence.

“I love this city; well, it’s a love hate relationship. I love the south side where I grew up, but I do get sketched out now when I see someone walking in the street or a car driving slowly.”