I wonder - seriously - about the correct response , including the use or non-use of deadly force if caught up in one of these events.
As I posted here previously, I was at the National Zoo on Easter Monday with two women and eight children, two in strollers, when the flash mob stabbing occurred. The 10-15 perpetrators were ten yards or less from us at their closest, for a period of about 30-45 seconds.
I have CCWs or reciprocity in 33 states, DC of course not included. I have reasonable training and had enough cool to get the two families into what defensive cover was available. If I had one of my weapons, I probably would at least had my hand on it.
The question for combat experienced FReepers is, would producing a weapon and shooting a rioter inside of 7 yards have been the correct play TO MAXIMIZE THE SURVIVAL OF THOSE I WAS PROTECTING?
Undoubtedly, had I shot one or two of the “youths”, it would have been a public service in the long run. The issue is, if it did not disperse the mob, the short run consequences for my protectees would likely have been much worse than it actually was.
Is a lone armed citizen up against, but not directly attacked by, one of these mobs better off with or without the threat of deadly force?
I’m starting to see a market for rapid area-effect pepper gas grenades. . . . Toss into mob, stand back. . .
Know the law in your particular state. If your state has a "Stand your Ground" law then you are in a better position if you need to use deadly force.
Note the phrase "NEED to use deadly force". In most jurisdictions, you may use deadly force to protect yourself from death or serious bodily injury, and against rape.
Somebody spitting in your face does not merit shooting them in any jurisdiction. Somebody grabbing your camera and running off with it does not merit shooting them in most jurisdictions. Somebody coming at you with a knife or other deadly weapon, with evident intent to stab you, DOES justify shooting them in most jurisdictions. A large mob, even unarmed, can stomp you to death very easily, and may justify deadly force, especially when there are already other victims on the ground to provide an indication that you are justified to feel that you are in deadly danger.
Bottom line: when the fertilizer looks like it's starting to hit the fan, exit the area. Keep in mind that in big cities, the jury pool will contain a high percentage of people who look like the guy you just shot. Do what you need to do to protect your family and yourself.
Lastly, DO NOT make statements to police other than "I was in fear for my life. I wish to have my attorney present before saying anything further."