A Ghost Gun was used to Kill a Health Insurance CEO. Why aren’t they regulated?

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The killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brain Thompson has sparked a debate among Americans. As more details of the incident have been uncovered, recent conversations have centered around how the suspect performed the murder, specifically the weapon used. The New York Police Department, as well as experts on online forums, has revealed the gun the suspect used is likely a “ghost gun”. This event is a recent addition into an extensive debate on this type of mechanism. 

So what are ghost guns? Ghost guns are privately made firearms, also known as homemade firearms. Because they are created for non-commercial use and are not manufactured by corporate or government establishments, it has typically not been necessary for these guns to be licensed or serialized. Therefore, they are untraceable and the market is not regulated like typical guns. In terms of construction, there are also manufacturers who make parts and components that can be brought to assemble firearms. However, many people have begun to use 3D printers to create these types of weapons. Instructions, videos, and designs are readily available on the internet which makes this a cheap and simple option. As this type of technology becomes more accessible, concerns about ghost guns continue to grow.

In the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA), a Federal Firearms License became required for anyone who intended to manufacture guns to sell or distribute. Prior to this, personal gun manufacturing had little to no restrictions. In 2022, further restrictions were placed when the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) ruled that weapon parts kits and privately made guns also needed a federal license. In the recent Supreme Court case Garland v. VanDerStock the plaintiff argues against these new government regulations, stating that the ATF is overstepping their authority. In the oral argument, one of main topics of debate included the complex definition of what a firearm is. The case will likely be decided next year.

With a conservative majority in the court in this case, there is a possibility for the restrictions to be dropped, however recent reports state that the court will likely side with the ATF’s rule. No matter the ruling, the existence of ghost guns will remain. Many gun rights activists are fighting against this case, and encourage local and state governments to pass legislation regulating these types of firearms. Many libertarians are staunch supporters of ghost guns, and want to keep them as unrestricted as possible. In the last year ghost guns have been used in robberies, school shootings, and homicides. Their usage will continue to grow, and ultimately will continue to be a relevant discourse in America.