WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |ATF: Weapons used in South Al shootings are legal

ATF: Weapons used in South Al shootings are legal

Montgomery, Ala. (WSFA) - Investigators are beginning to learn more about the shooter - Michael Mclendon.   He armed himself with four guns before killing 10 people then turning the gun on himself.

Authorities say Michael Mclendon carried two pistols, an SKS and a Bushmaster during his shooting spree.

"Any gun is lethal," said ATF agent Aladino Ortiz.  His team is assisting the investigation in South Alabama tracking the weapons Mclendon used.

Right now Ortiz says it appears Mclendon obtained them all legally. "To our knowledge, he didn't have a criminal record," said Ortiz. 

Authorities say Mclendon often bought large amounts of ammunition including the day before the shootings.  They also say he trained with the weapons he used. "Of course I knew he enjoyed collecting guns. But you know, that's not really that unusual for this part of the state, " said Samson mayor Clay King.

Ortiz said any law abiding citizen can purchase guns like these and there is no limit to the number he can buy. He believes there wasn't anything anyone could have done to stop Mclendon before he started his shooting rampage.

"This was all in his mind - he was set on doing this," said Ortiz.

To purchase a firearm you have to go to a licensed dealer and fill out a form. The FBI does a background check. 

If you don't have a criminal history you can get the weapon immediately. If there is a question about your record a decision could take about three days.