The Port Arthur shootings in April 1996 triggered enormous media attention about gun control. Various players in the debate received consistent coverage during the six-week period following the killings. This article presents an account of the media's handling of complex issues and the kind of coverage given to the pro-and anti-gun groups. It raises questions about the responsibilities of the news media, and its role in covering highly charged political issues. Examining media treatment of the gun control debate suggests that old stereotypes such as 'loonies' and 'villains' are still employed to simplify complex issues.