[nicmarlo]

I also notice, it seems, they're trying to downplay the possibility of it being sniper related, or is that my imagination?

[SarahW]

WEll, they ought to downplay it, because stray bullets are not uncommon in the uglier parts of town... this might have no sniper connection at all...

[MHT]

They are downplaying it being sniper-related--while simultaneously making a local shooting incident national news.

Until this past week, they were also playing down the possibility of the sniper being a terrorist....

I now wonder, without a willing media with 24/7 coverage of these shootings, regional paranoia, etc. if the shootings would continue. Media attention might be all that is needed and a greater reward for any kind of sick mind than even the "trophy" of nine dead innocent American citizens.