Gunmakers Can’t Be Sued for Criminal Acts of Gun Buyers

Victims cannot sue gunmakers when criminals use their products illegally, the California Supreme Court ruled Aug. 6. According to AP Online, the 5-1 decision, which rejects a suit based on the 1993 massacre of eight people in a San Francisco skyscraper, goes along with other courts who have similarly protected weapons manufacturers from liability.

“In reaching this conclusion, we are not insensitive to the terrible tragedy that occurred on July 1, 1993,” Justice Ming W. Chin wrote. “The Legislature has set California’s public policy regarding gun manufacturers liability under these circumstances. Given that public policy, plaintiffs may not proceed with their negligence claim.”

The decision was a victory for weapons manufacturers (especially Navegar Inc., the maker of the gun used in the skyscraper massacre), as well as for the insurers who provide product liability coverage for them.

The Supreme Court decision could protect gunmakers facing a lawsuit by Los Angeles, San Francisco and 10 other California cities and counties, claiming faulty design, manufacture and distribution of firearms. At least 16 similar suits have been filed by local governments elsewhere, according to AP Online.