Newly elected Jordanian MPs promised legislative amendments after a teenager was killed by festive firing during celebrations at a campaign headquarters, the Jordan Times reported Sunday (September 25th).
An 18-year-old girl was killed Saturday evening after being struck by a "stray bullet" during a celebration at a newly elected deputy’s campaign headquarters in east Amman, police said.
Social media users circulated videos showing heavy shooting alleged to have been filmed at the event in Hai Tafaileh to celebrate the election of Yihya Saud (Amman, 2nd District).
Police are investigating the incident and trying to locate the weapon that fired the fatal bullet.
In a statement issued Saturday, Saud expressed "deep sorrow" over the death of his cousin and condemned the "irresponsible" act, which he said turned the festive occasion into a "very sad and shocking" one.
Kheirallah Abu Seileek (Amman, 4th District) said charges in festive firing incidents that lead to death should be stiffened from manslaughter to murder, as death is an expected result and recent awareness campaigns have warned people of the consequences.
Ahmad Safadi (Amman, 3rd District) also stressed the need for stricter penalties, describing the issue as a "legislative priority".
Last year, the Public Security Department launched a campaign to curb festive shooting, particularly during weddings. The police radio station also launched an initiative, "Do not kill me with your happiness", aimed at highlighting the risks of festive firing.
In 2015, 35 people were arrested and 33 weapons were confiscated in festive firing cases, according to official figures released earlier this year.
