The use of tear gas by Missouri law enforcement has caused a run on gas masks in the St. Louis area. Local residents, reporters, and video production crews are making last minute calls to places like Uncle Sam’s military surplus only to find out that gas masks, gas mask filters, and bullet proof vests are all sold out.
“My mother feels like a virtual prisoner in her home,” said one Ferguson resident who attempted to buy a gas mask.
Other equipment being bought up are ear plugs to block out the loud blast from the LRAD sound cannon as well as bullet proof chest plates for vests, and tactical vests.
Governor Jay Nixon called upon the National Guard to handle the situation on the ground in St. Louis to quell the anger of protesters upset at police over the death of Michael Brown a the hands of Ferguson Police officer Darren Wilson.