In a growing controversy at the downtown skeet range, patrons are voicing their concerns regarding a man who has repeatedly
harassed female shooters, demanding photos while brandishing a shotgun and boasting about his shooting prowess without actually participating. Witnesses report that his unsettling behavior is notably absent when male patrons are present, raising questions about safety and gender dynamics at the facility.
Multiple sources, including patrons and staff, have described a pattern of behavior exhibited by the individual identified as "Kevin." "He shows up with his shotgun, always asking to take photos," recounted Jennifer Miller, a frequent visitor to the range. "It’s intimidating, especially when he ignores the guys and zeroes in on women.
It feels like he's trying to assert some kind of dominance." Another patron, who wished to remain anonymous, echoed these sentiments, stating,
“I’ve seen him boast about his skills, but he never steps up to shoot. It’s all talk.”
Range management has received reports of this behavior and is considering increased security measures to ensure a safe environment for all patrons. "While we want everyone to feel welcomed at our range, harassment of any kind is unacceptable," said John Roberts, the range’s manager. "We are reviewing our policies and may implement a stricter code of conduct to protect our customers."
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about the culture within shooting sports, particularly regarding how women experience these spaces. Advocates for female shooters argue that more needs to be done to create an inclusive atmosphere. "Women should feel empowered to shoot and enjoy the sport without dealing with harassment," said Sarah Thompson, a member of a local women's shooting league.
As the skeet range grapples with this issue, patrons are encouraged to report any inappropriate behavior to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. With ongoing discussions among users and management alike, the hope is to foster an environment where every shooter, regardless of gender, can feel secure and respected.
The situation remains under scrutiny, and the community is hopeful that swift action will not only address this specific incident but also set a precedent for how harassment in shooting sports is handled in the future.