ISU divided on carrying gun debate

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Should guns be allowed on college campuses? That's been an ongoing debate since the 2007 shootings at Virginia Tech University.

Now, nearly 5 years later, some states are considering legislation about permitting guns on campuses.

Indiana State University does not allow students to carry guns on campus.

ISU Police Chief Bill Mercier said allowing students to carry on campus is not necessarily a solution.

He believes the shooters in recent campus attacks are looking for two things: cause as much damage as they can, and to get someone to assist in their own suicide.

"So, having someone with a gun on campus, additional people with a gun on campus isn’t going to deter this person,” said Chief Mercier.

Chief Mercier said having more people on campus with guns plays into a shooter's hand. He believes it can ultimately cause more damage than good.

The Second Amendment, the Right to Bear Arms, is regulated by time and place.

“Actually, I believe the regulation of guns on campus doesn’t necessarily say people can’t have guns, period. But [in reference to the Virginia Tech shootings] that’s where the regulation comes in here,” said Chief Mercier.

Students had differing opinions about carrying guns on campus.

“I’m definitely for that. I feel like to make everybody safe, you have to create rules like that. Some people do it for the wrong reasons. Some people don’t. But, it’s still a safety precaution that I think is good,” said Natasha Williams, ISU student.

“Well, obviously, I think it’s a violation of our Second Amendment. But people can say, well, it’s more dangerous to carry a gun on campus, but I think we can protect ourselves more,” said Bruce Kepler, ISU student.

Ultimately, both sides of the gun debate are looking out for the safety of students.