Guns have gone from the domain of the crack cocaine dealers to now being an everyday accessory

Guns have gone from the domain of the crack cocaine dealers to now being an everyday accessory, a fashionable accessory, that young people want to be seen with," she said.

"It's become a lifestyle choice... part of a culture to be part of a gang.

"I think that's what's motivating young people, where a gun has become almost a status symbol demanding respect and power."