In the wake of the tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona two weeks ago, much of the ensuing discussion has revolved around the permissive gun laws in the country. But there's at least one part of NYC that doesn't see any reason for debate: the towns in the 10312 ZIP code, which cover's Staten Island's Annadale, Arden Heights and Eltingville sections, where one in every 56 males is packing heat, the most by far in the city. "[Guns are] a beautiful thing to own," said resident Peter Bruno, 73.
The area is home to the highest number of NYPD gun-permit holders in the city with 509. According to the Post, the neighborhood is filled with single-family homes and attached town houses, largely populated with conservative-leaning civil servants like cops and firefighters, and Wall Streeters. "That's the quintessential group that owns guns for their home and family protection," said the area's city councilman Vincent Ignizio. Other residents add that many security guards and retired law enforcement agents live in the area, which is close to two private gun ranges. Despite (or advocates would argue because of) the huge amount of guns, the area is incredibly safe statistically: the 123rd Precinct has seen a 27 percent decrease in major crimes over the past 10 years, and there were just two homicides there in 2009 and 2010.
