TEXAS, USA — All eyes are on Maine as more details about the mass shooting continue to develop.
The mass shooting in Maine is the deadliest since Uvalde. This year alone, there have been more than 500 incidents where four or more people have been shot, according to the Gun Violence Archive.
"It's getting more commonplace and way too frequent. But, the thing we've got to do is be vigilant," said Larry Smith, Smith County Sheriff.
Smith believes the root of the problem is the lack of mental health funding.
"We are in desperate need of funding for mental health. Unfortunately, the kind of funding we got is going to take too long to go into effect," Smith said.
As the suspect of the Maine massacre is still on the run, Smith said he won’t be hiding long.
"I've worked up in that area. They've got some great law enforcement officers there," Smith said. "And I assure you, they will catch up with them soon."
As the holidays begin, Smith urges the public to be aware of their surroundings.