'It’s not good to be on the other side of the barrel'

Officials in King County are looking for new ways to address gun violence. One measure directs young people to lead a report on solutions. Another, would fund a gang unit to investigate gun crimes.

The problem has been described as a public health crisis. One that disproportionately impacts young men of color. Nearly half of all shooting victims in 2017 were under age 25.

KUOW talked to young people impacted by gun violence. In exchange for their candor, we allowed them to choose their own names. 

The Mic was shot last year. Like a lot of young people who have had traumatic experiences, his injury has had a lasting impact on his physical and mental health.

Interview highlights

“I got shot August 17, 2017, in my lower back. I was going to one of the homie's houses to play video games and eat pizza."

“I was just in the wrong parts. I’ll never get myself in that predicament again because of how I be moving.”

“When people bring it up, it’s like my lower back starts stinging or something.”

[Read the main essay from this series, My name is Millionaire Lavish. I'm 18 and in the struggle.]

KUOW Reporter Patricia Murphy partnered with youth advocate Will Jimerson to produce a series of interviews with young people impacted by guns and gun violence. To protect their identity we allowed them to choose their own names.