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Sammy Caiola/WHYY

Sammy Caiola is WHYY News’ first-ever gun violence prevention reporter. She is committed to doing trauma-informed journalism driven by the communities she covers. She has been a health reporter for the last eight years, first at The Sacramento Bee and then at Capital Public Radio. Her podcast, “After the Assault,” explores the journey to justice and healing for survivors of sexual violence. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, dancing, and playing with her Labrador, Pepper.

Latest by Sammy Caiola/WHYY


Pa. lawmakers push for state funding for school monitoring program in hopes of slowing gun violence

The School District of Philadelphia launched its Safe Path gun violence prevention program in 2022. Pa. lawmakers are now calling for $50 million in state funds to expand it.
By Sammy Caiola/WHYY

Pa. Supreme Court to hear arguments over whether Philly can enact its own, stricter gun laws. ‘They need to save our children,’ families say

“This is a novel issue, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a winnable issue,” said Shaundra Kellam Lewis.
By Sammy Caiola/WHYY


Ghost gun makers are evading state and federal laws, experts say. Will Philly’s lawsuit slow them down?

Ghost gun parts are untraceable and can be purchased without background checks. Experts say slowing the supply is key to violence prevention.
By Sammy Caiola/WHYY

New survey on red flag laws, license requirements shows holes in Pa. gun legislation, advocates say

Most Americans, regardless of political party, support stronger gun laws according to a new survey. Pa. still lacks many of those policies.
By Sammy Caiola/WHYY

‘This is not over’: After Pa. state trooper fatally shoots teen, family calls for investigation; Philly police issues warning to illegal racers

An illegal street race preceded the shooting, and Philadelphia police say they’re cracking down ahead of summertime.
By Sammy Caiola/WHYY

No body cam footage in the Anthony Allegrini Jr. case, Pa. State Police say. His family still wants answers

A Pennsylvania State Police trooper fatally shot Allegrini Jr., 18, on June 4. After the death, a commanding officer revealed no state troopers wear body cameras.
By Sammy Caiola/WHYY


Homicides are down 8% in Philadelphia from last year, but shootings remain steady

The city has recorded 488 homicides as of Dec. 14, 2022, making the city unlikely to surpass the record-high 562 homicides it recorded in 2021.

By Sammy Caiola/WHYY
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